I only recently learnt that I am autistic. And even though I experience Alexithymia (sometimes I struggle to identify, recognise and then communicate my emotions), my feelings about late discovery are contradictory, conflicting and colossal.

In July 2024, Scotland was the first of the four nations of the United Kingdom to incorporate the UNCRC. This means children’s rights are now protected under Scots Law. This was celebrated as a historic moment: Scotland was leading the way. But what about adults?

Over 20 women surround the committee table at Parliament. It is not often that this sentence can be said as anything more than a dream, but I had the joy of witnessing it happen as a part of Young Women Lead 2024.

I wasn’t always comfortable with my identity as an adoptee. Even now, I’m not sure I can confidently own this part of myself, simply because so much of my life has been torn between three worlds.

At The Young Women’s Movement, we are reflecting on what the UK Autumn Budget means for young women and girls across Scotland, particularly in relation to reducing poverty, tackling gender inequality and investing in local communities. 

The cost-of-living crisis continues to deepen for young women and girls across Scotland. To mark Challenge Poverty Week 2024, The Young Women’s Movement and Scottish Women’s Budget Group are delighted to co-launch our report exploring the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on young women in Scotland.

In this article, programme participant Muminah reflects on her journey with Young Women Lead 2024.

Across Scotland, young women and girls are struggling to have their basic human rights realised due to poor access to healthcare, precarious employment, the prevalence and persistence of gender-based violence, and the ongoing climate crisis.