John Swinney's youth violence summit must deliver real change not just talk
John Swinney deserves credit when it comes to engaging with the public on the big issues facing the country.
Not every minister in his government is so willing when it comes to listening to voices who may not necessarily agree with their party line.
The SNP leader will host a summit on reducing youth violence across Scotland in a bid to prevent knife crime.
But mum Vicky Donald surely speaks for many when she voiced fears that nothing will be done. She has demanded urgent action and 'real change'.
The message is clear – John Swinney's latest summit can't be just another talking shop.
The Scottish Government has also pledged that funding for the Scottish Violence Reduction Unit will rise by seven per cent, after fears it faced a budget cut.
It comes in the wake of the tragic deaths of teenagers Amen Teklay, 15, and Kayden Moy, 16, who both died this year after being stabbed.
Another youth was also seriously injured but survived following an altercation in Edinburgh.
The Record has repeatedly reported that violence is a real problem in some secondary schools, with teachers seemingly powerless to punish the worst perpetrators.
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Real action has to be taken so our youngsters can feel safe, whether they are in the classroom or out socialising.
The vast majority of young Scots are well-mannered and a credit to their families.
But a violent minority cannot be left to cause havoc and risk more lives being lost.
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At least 10,000 new volunteers are needed to step up and help keep bloodstocks at their required levels.
More than half of regular donors are now aged 45 and over. Put simply, younger Scots need to be encouraged to step up and help save lives.
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