Scots speakers across Scotland face daily pressure to abandon their native tongue in favour of Standard English during formal interactions—whether at doctor’s appointments, bank visits, job interviews, or local council meetings. This enforced code-switching is a legacy of longstanding class bias and discrimination, which has unjustly labelled the Scots language as inferior. However, a proposed Scottish Languages Bill could help address these inequities.

For generations, speakers of Scots have contended with the negative connotations associated with their language. Historical practices in education reinforced the notion that Scots was “lesser” or “improper,” with many recalling harsh classroom punishments for using their mother tongue. These punitive measures left deep-seated feelings of linguistic inferiority that persist today.

The stigma continues to influence modern interactions. In workplaces and official institutions, many Scots speakers feel pressured to use Standard English, echoing past prejudices that only English is suitable for professional or formal settings. Mainstream media has also contributed to these damaging stereotypes; while Scots flourishes in music, poetry, and everyday conversations, its portrayal on television and film is often relegated to comedic or unflattering depictions. By contrast, Standard English enjoys an image of authority, expertise, and sophistication.

A significant change may be on the horizon with the proposed Scottish Languages Bill. Although details are still under discussion, the Bill aims to officially recognise and support Scots alongside Gaelic. It would enable public bodies, local authorities, and businesses to provide services in Scots if they wish, opening the door for initiatives such as council websites and public consultations in Scots and local businesses adopting the language in signage and customer interactions.

Advocates for the Bill argue that it is not merely about language—it is about respect and identity. They contend that establishing frameworks for the formal use of Scots would validate the language and its speakers, challenging the internalized shame ingrained by decades of discrimination. Such measures could play a crucial role in dismantling classist barriers in Scotland, affirming that the Scots language is a valuable and integral component of the nation’s cultural fabric.

If implemented, the proposed legislation would mark a significant step toward achieving full linguistic equality. By easing the pressure to switch voices in formal contexts, it promises to help heal the wounds of historical suppression and empower Scots speakers to express themselves in Scots throughout all aspects of Scottish life.