First Minister pledges to investigate closure of essential Thornhill centre
The Lilias Graham Trust, a Scottish charity providing independent parenting capacity assessments in Thornhill, is facing closure at the end of next month. Despite its longstanding service to families in need, the charity’s board made the difficult decision to wind up operations, leaving staff redundant and services halted by January 31, 2025.
The closure of the Lilias Graham Trust was brought to light by Conservative MSP Roz McCall during a recent session of the Scottish Parliament. The charity has been a crucial support system for families on the brink, offering residential support and assessments to those impacted by adverse experiences. Despite reaching out for support from the government which was not forthcoming, the closure of the trust jeopardises the progress made towards fulfilling ‘The Promise’, a commitment to safeguarding children in Scotland.
In response, First Minister John Swinney has acknowledged the importance of organisations like the Lilias Graham Trust in upholding the government’s promises. While highlighting the evolving landscape of family support services, Swinney has pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding the closure and consult with relevant ministers to address the issue effectively.
Established in 2006, the Lilias Graham Trust has a rich history of aiding families in need, with values rooted in compassion, respect, hope, trust, and care. Named after Lilias Graham, a dedicated advocate for families in distress, the trust’s legacy of providing a safe haven for vulnerable families has left a lasting impact on communities in Scotland.
As the fate of the Lilias Graham Trust hangs in the balance, the commitment of the Scottish government to safeguarding vulnerable children and families is under scrutiny. The closure of essential services like the trust raises questions about the sustainability of support systems for those in need and the government’s role in upholding its promises to the most vulnerable members of society.