Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP Gail Ross quizzes Scottish Government on care experienced young people and steps to make sure systems responds to their needs
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THE views and concerns of children and young people are vital if the care system is to respond to their needs, a Ross MSP has said after welcoming assurances that such views will be taken on board.
Gail Ross, who represents Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, was speaking after today's update from the Scottish Government on the findings of the Independent Care Review into looked after children and young people.
Ms Ross was keen to make sure that the Scottish Government take heed of the requests and priorities expressed by care experienced children and young people, particularly in relation to developing loving and meaningful relationships that are needed for young people to develop and thrive, particularly when family interactions are not possible or safe.
She said: “I am reassured that the Scottish Government is committed to listening to the views and concerns from care experienced children and young people, the Deputy First Minister made clear today that their priority would be to make sure that the concerns and needs of children are listen to and incorporated into future policy and action.”
“It’s not always the case that families can provide loving and positive relationships, its crucial that children and young people are given the opportunity to develop these as part of their lives, particularly during such difficult times as we see ourselves in at the moment.
“There are many children and young people in Caithness, Sutherland and Ross who have been supported exceptionally well throughout the pandemic by their carers, but I’m concerned that there are still many who are unable to develop positive and supportive relationships. I will continue to work to ensure that all children and young people have the opportunities they need to develop into happy and healthy adults.”
