This briefing paper examines the complexities of involving children and young people in decision-making related to programmes that aim to reduce holiday hunger in Scotland. Holiday hunger is defined as the increased levels of food insecurity felt by some children and their families during school holidays. Current initiatives in place to reduce holiday hunger in Scotland include programmes run by food banks, churches, community centres and schools.

Despite being the primary service users of these programmes, children’s views are not always included in decision-making. Under Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), State Parties are responsible for ensuring that children’s views are respected and taken into account in issues that affect them. To uphold this right, it is crucial that children are provided opportunities to become stakeholders in the development of programmes that aim to reduce holiday hunger.