Today (10 December),The Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland has launched an investigation into the use of secure accommodation in Scotland, and whether local authorities are following the laws around it.
Duncan Dunlop, Chief Executive of Who Cares? Scotland said:
“It should give everyone pause that the Children and Young People’s Commissioner for Scotland has felt the need to investigate whether adults are excluding children from decision making processes. It is, unfortunately, not a surprise to us that these issues have been raised.
“Since the beginning of 2019, we’ve helped Care Experienced people deal with over 70 issues raised whilst they’ve been in secure care. Our independent advocates work with young people before, during and after a decision is made to ensure that their voice is heard at the most critical of times. Not enough young people have access to this vital service.
“Upholding children’s rights is not an optional extra for those who are responsible for their care. We will do whatever we can, and work in whatever way is necessary, to ensure that the Commissioner is aware of how our advocates are supporting Care Experienced people every day.”
To read more about the investigation, visit the Commissioner’s website.
