On Monday (March 20th), during a visit to our Glasgow office, our members made a direct ask of Humza Yousaf, to keep listening to the care community, if appointed as the next leader of the SNP.
The SNP leadership candidate joined around 30 members and staff for brunch and to demonstrate his commitment to the Care Experienced community. On arrival Humza was presented with a scarf featuring the Care Experienced tartan, before conversations were carried out over breakfast rolls and in between selfies.
Later in a closed meeting, representatives of the Care Experienced community asked Mr Yousaf, should he become the next First Minister of Scotland, to commit to appointing a Care Experienced Minister and meeting with Who Cares? Scotland four times a year.
Yousaf has pledged he will work closely with Who Cares? Scotland as First Minister to ensure the voices of Care Experienced young people in Scotland are heard and considered in every aspect of policy.
Humza has also pledged to accelerate the commitments of The Promise’s Implementation Plan wherever and whenever possible to ensure all children, regardless of their background, are offered the best start in life.
Louise Hunter, Chief Executive at Who Cares? Scotland, said:
“It is so important that the Care Experienced people of Scotland feel seen and heard by the Scottish Government and those in power. Humza’s visit today has shown his intentions to do that. It was great to see him talking and listening to our members and we would like to thank him for his time.
We look forward to working closely with the next First Minister, whomever that may be, to ensure a lifetime of equality, respect and love for Scotland’s Care Experienced community.”
Commenting, Humza Yousaf, said:
“I am absolutely committed to ensuring every child in Scotland, regardless of their background, upbringing or family circumstances, is given the best start in life.
“Under my leadership, the SNP Government will remain focused on Keeping The Promise by 2030, accelerating those key commitments wherever we can, and working with important partners like Who Cares? Scotland every step of the way.”
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Update 29/3/23
The new First Minister, Humza Yousaf, during his cabinet reshuffle he announced Natalie Don MSP as the Minister for Children and Young People and Keeping The Promise.
Thanks to Humza for listening to our members and already showing his commitment.