As Scotland gears up for Child Safety Week 2025, Clare Adamson MSP is calling on families, carers, and communities to share safety advice and take proactive steps to reduce avoidable harm — especially to the most vulnerable children.
Running from 2–9 June, this year’s campaign theme is “Safety is for Sharing”, and it comes at a critical time, with growing concerns over online consumer goods, summer water safety, and a major upcoming electricity meter change that could affect thousands across the country.
“Safety is for Sharing”: A National Effort
Child Safety Week is the flagship awareness campaign of the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT), aimed at empowering families with knowledge to reduce the risk of unintentional injury — still one of the leading causes of death and serious harm to children in the UK.
Clare Adamson, MSP for Motherwell and Wishaw and Convenor of the Scottish Parliament’s Cross Party Group on Accident Prevention and Safety Awareness, is once again leading from the front.
“This is not about preaching,” Adamson says. “Bumps, scrapes, and bruises are part of growing up; I know that from my own family. But unintentional injuries can have life-changing impacts and they are not inevitable.”
She highlights the disproportionate impact of accidents on children from more deprived areas — a driver behind her years-long advocacy. “It’s a matter of basic social justice,” she adds.
Substandard Goods Online: A Hidden Threat
This year, Adamson is sounding the alarm over the rise of substandard or counterfeit products sold online — especially those marketed toward children.
“There is a dangerous perception that online goods aimed at children must be safety tested,” she warns. “CAPT research found 54% of parents mistakenly believe that all sellers on online platforms check the safety of their products. That is simply not the case.”
With financial pressures mounting on households, many are turning to third-party sellers on platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Wish. But Adamson says consumers must remain vigilant — especially when purchasing electrical items or toys with batteries, which may not meet UK safety standards.
“Please stick to trusted traders and do not compromise on product safety,” Adamson advises.
RTS Meter Switch-Off: Thousands at Risk of Energy Disruption
In a public service warning, the MSP also reminds constituents that the Radio Teleswitch Service (RTS) will be switched off permanently on 30 June 2025. Many older electric meters rely on this service to control heating and hot water schedules — and failure to act could leave some homes inoperable.
“If your RTS meter isn’t replaced, your heating could end up always on, never on, or turning on and off at unsuitable times,” Adamson said. “Your supplier should contact you, but if not — reach out and request a smart meter replacement now.”
More information is available through Home Energy Scotland, which is advising residents on what steps to take.
Water Safety and Swimwear: What Parents Should Know
As Scotland enters the warmer months, water safety is also top of mind for the MSP, who urges families to prioritise visibility and movement when choosing children’s swimwear.
“Bright, contrasting colours like neon orange and yellow are best,” she said. “Avoid mermaid tails and monofins — they may look cute but they restrict movement and pose serious drowning risks.”
Scotland has seen a concerning rise in accidental drownings in recent years, with public health experts calling for greater parental awareness around hidden water risks and proper swim safety gear.
A Whole-Family Approach to Safety
Adamson encourages families across the country to make use of the free resources and advice available during Child Safety Week. Topics include:
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Preventing burns and scalds in the home
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Reducing choking and poisoning risks
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Falls and home safety for toddlers
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Safety around animals and near roads
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Drowning prevention tips for children and teens
“With simple, proactive measures, families can dramatically reduce risk,” Adamson said. “I urge everyone to get involved — there are always engaging and fun activities happening across the country that can make a real difference.”
