MSP speaks in Government debate on looked after looked after children

 

This week in Holyrood, The Scottish Government debated the future of care in Scotland, welcoming the first independent review of the Scottish care system.

As announced by First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, at the autumnal SNP Conference, the Scottish Government will launch an independent, root and branch review of the care system driven by those who have experience of care.

As pledged to Who Cares? Scotland, Scotland’s leading organisation for children in care, the Scottish Government has promised to listen to over 1,000 care experienced voices, playing a critical role in the reform of the Scottish care system.

SNP MSP for Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse, Christina McKelvie, spoke in support for Scotland’s looked after children:

“Care is a vital part of our child protection system. Most young people in care say that their experiences are good and that it was the right choice for them. But more needs to be done to ensure that all children in care are healthy and safe, have the same opportunities as their peers and can move successfully into adulthood.

“We need to turn the telescope around and stop thinking in terms of the needs of the system and turn to the needs of the children and young people in its care.

“Children in care 'should feel accepted, valued, wanted and listened to' reports the Life Changes Trust.” Of course they should; every child should.

“Let’s make it happen.”