Chair of Independent Root and Branch Review of Care System in Scotland announced

The First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, has appointed Fiona Duncan, CEO of the Lloyds TSB Foundation as Chair of the Independent Root and Branch Review of the Care System.

The review will look at the underpinning legislation, practices, culture and ethos of the care system. It will be driven and shaped by the evidence of care experienced young people and propose changes to the care system that will improve both the quality of life and outcomes of young people in care.

The FM explains her reasons in a press statement released on 16 February, a day before Care Day, and says:  As First Minister, I am determined that we act now to change the course for the young people who depend on us to make sure they enjoy safe, fulfilling, secure and loving childhoods.

"This review will be root and branch. It will look at the underpinning legislation, practices, culture and ethos of the system. And it will be driven and shaped by care experienced young people themselves."

Fiona comments that she is honoured to be asked to chair this important exercise. She states: "While the review will be complex and the issues challenging, it will be the expertise of children and young people with lived experience of the system who will ensure a focus on what matters. It will be crucial that the review not only hears their voices, but that real change happens as a result.”

SASW Manager Trisha Hall says: " We are delighted with the appointment of someone whom I have experienced to possess the optimism, energy and tenacity to undertake what will be a huge task. I am also very pleased that CELCIS will provide the much needed support, this was of a very high standard and quite invaluable within the recent Review of Child Protection Systems. We hope that our members, and social workers across Scotland, will be able to participate actively and effectively within the Care Review. Social workers are an important part in a child or young person's experience of being looked after at home, or in other households or care settings. We want to really play our part in ensuring we are able to effect lasting and positive changes for the young people, their families and the communities they are part of, wherever possible in partnership. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a real difference and knowing you have been able to contribute in any way to a happier future."