You’ve probably heard that Russia has invaded Ukraine. You’ve maybe seen it on the news or your pals are talking about it.  

You might have friends who have escaped other wars to live in Scotland or have friends abroad who you are worried about.  

You might feel upset, sad, confused, or scared. 

It’s OK to feel like that. 

But there are things you can do that will help you make sense of what’s happening. 

You might want to find out more about Ukraine and the best way to do that is through trusted sources like BBC Newsround who will give you the facts. Their website also has good advice on how to deal with the news when it’s scary. 

Another way of getting reliable information is through First News. It has a special report on Ukraine this week and it’s free to download. 

Children in Scotland 

There are lots of Ukrainian children in Scotland and they will be very worried about what’s happening. 

There are lots of Russian children here who will also be worried. They should never be blamed for the war. 

But even if you don’t have a connection to Ukraine or Russia, you might still be anxious. 

It’s important to talk about your feelings. Speak to an adult you trust or find support at Shout or Mind or Childline. 

What can you do? 

The news is upsetting, but you aren’t powerless and there is hope. 

There are charities and organisations supporting people who have had to leave Ukraine. Visit the Disasters Emergency Committee for more information. 

They are collecting money to fund education and buy food, medicine, and shelter for people affected.  

You have a right to make your views known, and a right to protest so you can sign petitions, write to your MP or MSP, or attend a rally to show support if it is safe to do so. Find out more about being a child human rights defender. 

The Children’s Commissioner in Ukraine has told us how important the support of young people in other countries is to children there. You can show your support in creative ways through making posters, or cards. If you email us at inbox@cypcs.org.uk, we will send on your messages or work to the Children’s Commissioner in Ukraine.  

What are we doing? 

We have always worked closely with the Children’s Commissioner in Ukraine and we are speaking to them every day to support their work to try to keep children safe. 

We are working with organisations in Scotland to help children here too. 

We teamed up with the other Children’s Commissioners in the UK and wrote to the UK Government. We asked them to work for peace, help people in Ukraine, and welcome refugees here. 

We’ve also worked with Children’s Commissioners across Europe and they are asking their governments to help too.

What is the world doing? 

World leaders want this war to stop. They are trying to make Russia leave Ukraine safely and they are supporting people who have had to leave Ukraine. 

The United Nations is urging Russia to end the war.  

We don’t have all the answers but Kayden, aged seven, wrote a powerful #7WordStory which is especially important just now: “Rights matter. You matter. Don’t lose hope”.