Scotland 'could do better' says rights report

A new report by the Scottish Human Rights Commission shows that, while Scotland has made progress on realising internationally recognised human rights, there is more that can be done.

The report, Getting it Right? Human Rights in Scotland, sets out evidence on issues from policing to housing, dignity and care, healthcare, work and access to justice. It highlights a range of what appear to be gaps and good practices as Scotland grapples with huge demographic challenges of a rapidly increasing older population.

Among the areas of concern identified are fuel poverty faced by older people, end of life choices, acccess to basic services in some rural areas and the debate about the integration of health and social care.

The Commission proposes that in order to fill these gaps, Scotland follows the example of several Nordic and Commonwealth countries by developing its first National Action Plan for Human Rights. This will identify the public bodies with responsibility for upholding human rights and understanding what the barriers might be to realising them fully for everyone throughout the country. 

Age Scotland spokesperson Doug Anthoney says: "We welcome this report and the renewed focus on older people's rights that it brings. The Commission has promised an open and inclusive process for developing the National Action Plan, so we encourage people to get involved in this exciting opportunity to shape development of Human Rights policy and practices in Scotland."

To have your say on the research findings, and to find out about opportunities to take part in future participation events, visit the Commission's website.