Free school meals - test of change phase: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment

Conclusion

7. As a result of the evidence gathered and analysed against all UNCRC requirements, what is the potential overall impact of this proposal on children’s rights?

The impact of this proposal is considered to be positive for those pupils who are a part of the schools that are selected to participate in the Test of Change and in receipt of SCP.

8. If you have identified a positive impact on children’s rights, please describe below how the proposal will protect, respect, and fulfil children’s rights in Scotland.

This proposal is likely to further the realisation and enjoyment of children’s rights, specifically in relation to pupils who are a part of the schools that are selected to participate in the Test of Change and in receipt of SCP. Such children and young people will access the positive benefits to wellbeing, health, attainment and nutrition outlined above, as a result of being provided with FSMs through a targeted approach. This will also benefit pupils who experience financial disadvantage.

9. If a negative impact has been identified please describe it below. Is there a risk this could potentially amount to an incompatibility?

No negative impacts have been identified and our approach is considered as a proportionate response to the current fiscal position.

Mitigation Record

Issue or risk identified and relevant UNCRC requirement

N/A

Action Taken/ To Be Taken

N/A

Date action to be taken or was taken

N/A

10. As a result of the evidence gathered and analysed against all wellbeing indicators, will the proposal contribute to the wellbeing of children and young people in Scotland?

Safe: Not Applicable

Healthy: Yes

Achieving: Yes

Nurtured: Yes

Active: Not Applicable

Respected: Not Applicable

Responsible: Not Applicable

Included: Not Applicable

If yes, please provide an explanation below:

Pupils who are a part of the schools that are selected to participate in the Test of Change and in receipt of SCP will access the positive benefits to wellbeing, health, attainment and nutrition outlined above, as a result of being provided with FSMs through a targeted approach.

11. How will you communicate to children and young people the impact that the proposal will have on their rights?

Scottish Government will work with local authorities to ensure that suitable communications plans are developed so that parents/carers and young people are aware of this revised approach, and the provision and commitment which remains in place. This document, along with the EQIA, will follow accessibility guidelines.

The information provided on Free school meals - mygov.scot and on All about school meals | Parent Club will be updated.

In addition, there will be an independent evaluation of the Test of Change phase. Researchers will engage the young people who will benefit from the meals and their views will be represented in any future phases of the FSM programme.