Humanists welcome extension of abortion provision in Scotland

January 4, 2017

Reproductive Rights

Humanist campaigners in Scotland have welcomed reports that the Scottish Government is considering extending access to abortion services in Scotland.

According to reports in The Herald, the Scottish Government is considering extending access to abortion services for women who want a termination beyond 18-20 weeks.

At the moment many women who want to access abortion services beyond 18-20 weeks have to travel to England, with NHS Scotland covering the costs.

HSS Registered Celebrant, and spokesperson for women’s rights, Claire Digance, said:

“It’s great to see the Scottish Government acknowledge the vital need for these important health services. For too long women in Scotland have had to travel, often unaccompanied, to England to seek access to services.

“We in Humanist Society Scotland have consistently spoken up for women’s rights, against a wave of social conservatives and religious fringe groups.

“The First Minister has repeatedly said that she supports women’s right to choose, and we welcome this important decision.”

For more information or comment contact Gary McLelland on 07813060713 or gary@humanism.scot.

Notes:

Humanist Society Scotland is the national charity for humanists, atheists, freethinkers and agnostics who seek to live an ethical, rational fulfilling life. We have over 14,000 members and our celebrants conducted more than 3,500 weddings last year.
More than 75% of Scots are in favour of supporting abortion. http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/lifestyle/family-relationships/scots-back-womens-right-choose-6154265
A study by Hannah Pearson (University of Glasgow) has shown that women in Scotland face significant barriers to abortion services: http://www.abortionrights.org.uk/scottish-women-face-significant-barriers-access-to-abortion-in-scotland/