Chamber and committees

John Wilkes, do you want to come in?

I know that the cabinet secretary will share my and my constituents’ relief that the dispute has now been settled and that our train drivers will be getting back to providing passengers with a fuller ScotRail timetable. Will she ensure that ScotRail circulates information about reinstated services as quickly as possible, so that the travelling public are aware of how Scotland’s publicly owned railway will meet their needs?

To ask the Scottish Government what recent discussions it has had with ScotRail regarding the operation of a reduced train timetable. (S6O-03765)

I am pleased to speak in this debate and thank my colleague Rona Mackay for bringing this important topic to the chamber. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder awareness month is a time to educate ourselves and our communities about the impact of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and to advocate for those who are affected by fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

Exposure to alcohol during pregnancy can lead to permanent harm for an unborn child and can have lifelong consequences, such as cognitive and behavioural issues and physical disabilities such as organ damage and poor growth. It is estimated that between 3 and 5 per cent of people in Scotland could be living with FASD, although some suggest that figures could be even higher. It affects people throughout their lives, impacting their ability to engage in daily life if early support is not put in place.

Despite its prevalence, awareness and understanding of FASD remains low, so it is our responsibility to raise awareness and to educate ourselves and others. Key to that is understanding that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. The chief medical officer is clear that it is best to avoid alcohol during pregnancy, and even while planning to get pregnant, because that is crucial to protecting the health of future generations. Early identification and support are crucial and, with comprehensive support, individuals with FASD can prosper and can meet educational and life goals.

In Scotland, we are fortunate to have a network of organisations that are available to support those with FASD and their families. The FASD hub Scotland is a perfect example. Funded by the Scottish Government, it offers peer support, training and one-to-one family support services whereby parents and carers will guide people through the process of getting a diagnosis and help them with accessing benefits, funding and additional support. Such organisations play a crucial role in increasing awareness and providing a safe space for parents and carers to share their journeys and experiences. As MSPs, it is our job to make sure that they are highlighted in Parliament and in our constituencies so that people are aware of the supports that are out there.

I agree with my colleague Rona Mackay that it is also important to increase awareness and training for practitioners to enable access to diagnostic and support services for those with FASD and their families. It is therefore welcome that, through the Scottish Government’s funding, the fetal alcohol advisory support and training team has a national remit to provide and facilitate training, consultation and research. That will enhance the capacity, knowledge and confidence of Scotland’s health and social care workforce in their work with those who are affected by FASD. I am also pleased to note that, as of last month, the University of Edinburgh offers Europe’s first postgraduate certificate in FASD.

FASD awareness month is also about recognising the resilience and strength of those who live with FASD and their families. With the right support, they can flourish. Support networks are key to that, because they foster connections between families and provide a safe space for them to share experiences and advice. As we mark fetal alcohol spectrum disorder awareness month, we must recommit our efforts to raise awareness throughout our communities and work together to reduce the rates of FASD while continuing to advocate for the rights and needs of those who are affected. Together, we can create a country where individuals are—rightly—supported and empowered to live their best lives.

Also, what needs to improve?

My final question is on an issue that has been covered, but I will ask it anyway. South of the border, discretion is available to offer fee remission in exceptional circumstances. Do you think that there should be a similar scheme in Scotland? You have touched on the fact that you would probably support such a scheme, but I will ask you anyway.

Would you mind repeating those figures for me?

Thank you.

Julie, I am focusing on the exemptions and you were going to come in. We have heard the issues that people are facing. Is there anything that is working well and can you suggest any improvements?

Hyo, do you want another opportunity to add anything about exemptions? I am not putting you on the spot. If you do not want to speak, that is fine, I can move on to my next question.