Scotland faces challenges in fulfilling its pledge to provide vulnerable children with the support, love, and respect they deserve by 2030.
This year marks the halfway point to 2030. A report states access to family support is lacking, and housing is a barrier for some people. Support for kinship, foster, and adoption carers also needs improvement.
Other issues involve short-term funding, and services are stretched too thin these days. Social worker recruitment and retention are problems.
David Anderson chairs the Oversight Board, and he stressed the promise’s importance.
He said action on spending is needed, and they must do things differently. They should count what matters most, and he suggests some aren’t doing enough. Anderson indicated many are keeping the promise and sees it in their daily work.
The changes will improve the needed support. It must be available when kids and families need it.
Work is behind schedule currently, but Scotland can still deliver by 2030 if they act now, he stated.
Natalie Don-Innes is a government minister. She reiterated the commitment to the promise and noted progress, like a drop in looked-after children. Over £110 million went to family support since 2022.
As of August, young people won’t go to young offender units. £7 million covers placement costs this year. Ministers are listening to those with care experience, and their insights help shape the Promise Bill, which will be introduced soon.