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Scottish Human Rights Commission report finds clear human rights failures in southern Scotland
Overview
A new report by the Scottish Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has revealed clear human rights failures across eight local authority areas in southern Scotland, with basic obligations regarding food, health, and housing not being met. The study highlights that accessibility is the biggest challenge, as existing services are frequently unreachable in practice, leading to disparities between urban and rural areas and a feeling of disconnection from decision-making among residents.
Key points
- The Scottish Human Rights Commission report found that basic obligations on food, health, and housing are not being met across eight local authority areas in southern Scotland.
- The study concluded that accessibility is the primary challenge, making existing services unreachable in practice for many residents.
- Case studies in the report highlighted regional health service disparities, difficulties finding accessible taxis, and long travel distances for maternity care.
- Many households are cutting back on meals and relying on food banks due to rising costs and low incomes.
- Deputy First Minister Jenny Gilruth stated that public service reform represents an opportunity to push power out to communities around the country.