Poverty, Phones and the Future of Childhood
with host Lucy Johnston and guest Mary Glasgow

In this compelling episode, host Lucy Johnston speaks with Mary Glasgow, Chief Executive of Children 1st, about the urgent challenges shaping modern childhood in Scotland. Together they explore how poverty, the digital world, post-lockdown behaviours, family stress, and community strain are impacting children — and what adults can do to genuinely support them.

Mary offers grounded, real-world insight into why children’s behaviour has shifted, why families feel more overwhelmed than ever, and how strong relationships, early intervention and community-based support can transform children’s futures. This conversation is a clear, compassionate look at what childhood needs now — and how we can build a Scotland where every child feels safe, connected and able to thrive.

A must-listen for carers, parents, social workers, educators and anyone invested in the wellbeing of Scotland’s young people.