27 THE SCOTSMAN Tuesday 8 September 2020 SCOTSMAN.COM @THESCOTSMAN 2 The average number of referrals to police after calls to the NSPCC’S helpline rose by 50 per cent after the lockdown began information on child development and how trauma can manifest in behavioural problems or poor emotional regulation. The Scottish Government’s promise to ensure that all children and young people “are clearly and quickly signposted to the right help and support where it’s needed” is also heartening. However, it is crucial this is also accompanied by investment in specialist, relevant and timely treatment and support for those who have suffered traumatic experiences such as abuse and neglect. It is vital the Government recognises this is not about getting back to the position we were in before the coronavirus crisis – we need to go much further; too many children struggle to access mental health support. And our research shows patchy provision of therapeutic services for children who have suffered abuse across the country. While it is important we focus on looking forward, the threat of the virus is still very much a reality, and it is crucial the hardship of recent months is not wasted. If stricter social-distancing measures need to be imposed in the future, whether it’s to individual regions or to the whole country, we must ensure that better protections are in place for the most vulnerable. We cannot forsake our children and allow them to become invisible once again. In the longer term, it is so important that we invest in identifying need and providing early preventative support for families facing a range of adversities. We know that supporting vulnerable parents to overcome their own difficulties, often stemming from their own early experiences, helps them become more emotionally available for their young child. And, so, it is good to hear the First Minister reinforce her commitment to delivering on the recommendations of the Independent Care Review, with a £4 million fund for early intervention and family support. We recognise that bringing about recovery for Scotland’s children is a significant task. But we have begun with a bright vision. The introduction of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill last week marked a monumental day for the country. This is a significant step to ensuring that all children, even babies, in the country have their rights – including those relating to fair and equal treatment and being protected from abuse – recognised, respected and fulfilled. It sets out clearly that our vision is for Scotland to be a country that values, respects and cherishes every child. Joanna Barrett is NSPCC Scotland policy and public affairs manager HAVE YOUR SAY www.scotsman.com