SNP Minister Ensures Nicola Sturgeon’s Commitment to Young Scots in Care Is Upheld
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Record, SNP Minister Natalie Don-Innes has affirmed that the Scottish Government is actively working towards fulfilling Nicola Sturgeon’s Promise to young people in care. The Promise, a 10-year pledge by the Government to ensure that care-experienced children are nurtured, safe, and respected, was initiated in response to a review that identified shortcomings in the care system.
Don-Innes acknowledged that while “transformational change does not happen overnight,” significant progress has been achieved in enhancing child support services across the board. However, a recent report indicated delays in fully realising the Promise due to unforeseen circumstances and systemic obstacles. These challenges include limited access to essential family support, housing barriers, and issues related to kinship, adoption, and foster care.
The SNP minister highlighted legislative achievements such as the Children (Care and Justice Act), which diverts 16 and 17-year-olds from Young Offenders Institutions to secure care. Investment in Whole Family Wellbeing has also been instrumental in providing proactive support to families before crises emerge, enabling them to thrive.
Don-Innes underscored the importance of continuous improvement, noting feedback from care-experienced individuals on the positive impact of recent initiatives. She emphasised that keeping the Promise requires collaborative efforts from various stakeholders, including local authorities, the third sector, the government, and the public.
Despite challenges, Don-Innes remains optimistic about meeting the Promise’s 2030 deadline. David Anderson, chair of the Promise’s oversight board, stressed the need for decisive action, innovative approaches, and accountability to ensure the Promise is upheld. While progress has been made, ongoing commitment and cooperation are essential to deliver lasting positive outcomes for young people in care.
In conclusion, the Scottish Government’s dedication to fulfilling Nicola Sturgeon’s Promise reflects a commitment to prioritising the well-being and futures of care-experienced children. By addressing systemic challenges and fostering collaboration, Scotland aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every young person can thrive and reach their full potential.