Politics: Living in rural areas has unique challenges for residents

As your MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, I am always committed to ensuring that the voices of our rural communities are heard in the Scottish Parliament, writes MSP Karen Adam

Whether it's through my work on the Equalities, Human Rights, and Civil Justice Committee or the questions I pose to the First Minister, I aim to highlight the specific challenges we face in our area.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to raise some of these concerns in Parliament and to participate in discussions that could shape the future of rural Scotland for the better.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with the First Minister during a conveners' session, where I raised two key issues.

The first of these was about the forthcoming Human Rights Bill. While many of us were hoping to see this Bill introduced during this parliamentary session, it has not yet been earmarked for debate.

The First Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to this Bill, making it clear that although it hasn’t been scheduled for this session, it remains a priority.

This assurance is vital, as Scotland must continue to lead the way in ensuring that human rights are enshrined in law.

As convener of the Equalities, Human Rights, and Civil Justice Committee, I have arranged two upcoming evidence sessions where stakeholders will have the chance to express why a Human Rights Bill is so crucial and what it means for communities across the country.

While the Human Rights Bill is important, the second question I asked the First Minister hits closer to home for us here in Banffshire and Buchan Coast - the negative impacts of rurality.

As someone who lives and works in a rural area, I am acutely aware of the unique challenges we face compared to more urbanised parts of the country.

Over the past three years on the Equalities Committee, I have seen time and time again how rural communities face compounded inequalities.

Whether it’s our inquiry into eliminating HIV, discussions on suicide prevention, or work on access to justice, the evidence is clear - people living in rural areas experience additional hardships that exacerbate existing inequalities.

Public transport in many of our communities is unreliable or non-existent, making it harder for people to access essential services.

For those who rely on cars, rising fuel costs and a lack of alternative transport options can create even more pressure.

The First Minister agreed that rurality is a critical factor to consider and committed to “rural proofing” government policy.

This means ensuring that future legislation considers the specific needs of rural communities, reducing the risk of unintended consequences that might otherwise deepen the divide between rural and urban Scotland.

Rural proofing is not about asking for special treatment, it's about ensuring fairness and equality, and I will continue to push for this approach at every level of decision-making.

The concept of rural proofing is essential for reducing disparities in access to services, be it healthcare, justice or education.

Policies that work well in urban centres may not be effective in rural areas, and as your MSP, it’s my job to make sure those differences are considered.

This is particularly important as we move forward with initiatives that aim to tackle climate change and improve public services.

Policies must not inadvertently harm the very people they are intended to help.

In the coming months, I will continue to ensure that the needs of rural communities remain at the forefront of government thinking.

As always, I encourage you to get in touch with me to share your experiences.

It’s your stories that shape the work I do, whether it’s in Holyrood or here in Banffshire and Buchan Coast.

Together, we can make sure our communities thrive and that no one is left behind.

Thank you for your continued support, and please get in touch with me, I am here to help.