Calum's Law campaigner Beth Morrison awarded honorary degree at 2026 summer graduation

Angus-based disability rights campaigner Beth Morrison has received an honorary degree from Abertay University in recognition of her role in securing the introduction of Calum’s Law in Scotland. 

Beth, founder and Chief Executive of Positive & Active Behaviour Support Scotland (PABSS), was recognised for her outstanding contribution to disability rights and children’s rights. 

Her campaigning began after her son Calum was forcibly restrained at school in 2010, an experience that led her to call for greater transparency and accountability around the use of restraint and seclusion in schools. 

That work helped drive the introduction of Calum’s Law, landmark legislation requiring schools to record and report incidents of restraint and seclusion. Through PABSS, Beth continues to support disabled children, young people and their families, while contributing to national policy, research and safeguarding reforms. 

Beth said: 

We may not always be able to choose the cards life deals us, but we can choose how we respond to them. Calum’s Law was born from holding on to that belief. I never imagined that the journey I began as a mother fighting for her son would lead to the creation and passing of Calum’s Law. I certainly never imagined that one day Abertay – the place I once had to leave behind – would welcome me back with an honorary degree. Whatever I have achieved, I have not achieved alone. Along the way, I have been supported by family, friends, campaigners, professionals and many others who shared the same determination to make a difference. 

The honour marked a poignant full-circle moment for Beth, who was an Abertay student 20 years ago before having to leave her studies because of family circumstances.

Beth added:

Sometimes the thing that breaks your heart becomes the thing that shapes your purpose. Sometimes the door that closes is the one that pushes you towards a journey you never expected to take. This was never a journey I expected to take, but I am proud that Calum’s legacy continues to bring about change and to help create a world where children are listened to, supported and given the chance to thrive.

Professor Liz Bacon, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University, said: 

Beth Morrison’s determination to transform her family’s experience into lasting change has had a profound impact on the rights of disabled children and young people across Scotland. Through her leadership and her role in securing Calum’s Law, she has helped influence policy and practice for the benefit of countless families. She represents the power of leadership, determination and innovation in addressing some of society’s most important challenges. We are delighted to recognise Beth’s achievements and welcome her to the Abertay family, where she will be an inspiration for years to come.

The honorary degrees were conferred on Friday 10 July 2026 at the Caird Hall in Dundee, where more than 750 students graduated in the presence of family, friends and senior members of the University, including Chancellor Professor Alice Brown and Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Liz Bacon.