Human rights body finds challenges with access to healthcare, food and housing in remote parts of Scotland

A human rights organisation has said people in the Highlands and Islands are struggling with access healthcare, housing and food.

The Scottish Human Rights Commission (SHRC) said that many living in these areas of Scotland have expressed frustration over their human rights.

Other issues reported by residents were a lack of sexual and reproductive health services, as well as rooflessness.

In certain areas, the SHRC said sustained cuts to health services have been made with significant impacts on the local population.

The organisation says there is also a shortage of affordable homes in rural areas, including social housing.

Additionally, many people were concerned about heating, with high energy costs widely reported.

The Commission piloted an innovative new human rights monitoring model by visiting 20 communities across the region and interviewing a total of 146 people.

Professor Angela O’Hagan, chairwoman of the SHRC, said: “The commission is very concerned about the poor state of economic, social and cultural rights in the Highlands and Islands.

“Too many people in Highland and Islands are hungry, homeless, without access to healthcare, and the basics for everyday life.

“With this work, we are piloting a new way of monitoring, one that brings the Commission closer to communities and enhances their voices and struggles.

“While we continue to develop this way of working, we expect that all duty-bearers will reflect carefully on the evidence found in this report, and the action now required from them to meet their human rights obligations.”

Dr Luis F Yanes, project lead and report author, added: “Economic, social and cultural rights are essential for people living a dignified life, free from fear and want.

“Many people in the Highlands and Islands feel unheard, disenfranchised, abandoned, and forgotten, with their human rights concerns discarded or minimised.

“This report enhances the voices of those living in the Highlands and Islands, demonstrating that urgent action is needed to realise these human rights for many people across the region.”

The Scottish Government has been contacted for comment.