THE MINISTER

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said the Scottish Government is fully committed to transforming the care system to ensure every child reaches their full potential.

He said some important reforms have already been made, adding: “In November, a national advocacy service was launched to reinforce the rights of children involved in the hearings system.

“By offering children and young people support to express their needs, we can help to ensure that, rightly, their voices are heard in decisions that affect their lives.

“Last month, legislation came into force to protect sibling relationships for children in care.

This means that brothers and sisters will have new rights to appropriately participate – with support including advocacy services – in children’s hearings where contact with their siblings is being considered.

“Another crucial area of work is trauma training – recognising where people have been affected by psychological trauma and responding to that with compassion and care. We know this helps to prevent further harm and reduces barriers for people to access the services they need.

“People need to know that change is happening – but much work is still to be done and it will take a collective effort across society.”