Key policy developments
There are several key policy issues being discussed and debated in Scotland at present. These include:
Children's services
Joint Inspection of Children's Services and Inspection of Social Work Services Act 2006
The Scottish Parliament passed the Joint Inspection of Children's Services and Inspection of Social Work Services Bill in January 2006. This outlines how joint inspection of children's services ane social work services will take place. The Scottish Executive has published a code of practice for the inspection of child protection services. A separate code of practice will be published for the inspection of children's services.See related items below for further information.
Getting it right for every child: proposals for action
The Scottish Executive consultation on proposals to improve children's services and strengthen and support the Children's Hearings System ended in September 2005. The proposals included new statutory duties on agencies to work together, redefine the grounds for referral to the Children's Hearings System and improve training and support for panel members.The proposals also outline plans for a single intregrated assessment, planning and recording framework (IAF) that is holistic and applies to all children.
See related items below for further information.
Workforce reform
A review of social work is currently being undertaken by the 21st century social work review group.
See related items below for further information.
Bichard Vetting and Barring
The Scottish Executive consulted in spring 2006 on proposals for legislation which will provide the framework for a new vetting and barring scheme for those working with children and vulnerable adults in Scotland. The proposals will provide for the creation of a Central Barring Unit and allow for parents to ask nannies, music teachers etc. to apply for enhanced disclosure. The proposals are in response to the Bichard recommendations.
We expect that a bill, which will include a section on information sharing, will be out the end of September 2006.Civil Justice
The Family Law (Scotland) Bill was passed by the Scottish Parliament in December 2005. The Act extends parental rights and responsibilities to unmarried fathers; introduces new legal safeguards for cohabiting couples; and reduces the separation periods required for divorce.
See related items below for further information.
Crime and Justice
The Scottish Parliament's Justice 2 Committee has recently published their report from their inquiry into youth crime.Education
Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Bill
The Scottish Parliament passed the Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Bill in May 2006. The Bill will introduce a more support and flexibility for parental involvement in schools and their children's education. The Bill will replace school boards with parent councils, and places duties on ministers and local authorities to promote parental involvement.Education Committee
Adoption and Children (Scotland) Bill
The Adoption and Children (Scotland) Bill is currently progressing through the Scottish Parliament. The Bill will modernise the adoption system and ensure more children and young people enjoy a stable home life. The proposals include the introduction of new permanence orders and allow for both partners in an unmarried couple to adopt jointly.Inquiries
The Scottish Parliament's Education Committee is currently undertaking two inquiries. One into early years services and provision and the other is on pupil motivation.See related items below for further information.
Support for children and families
The Scottish Parliament Justice 1 Committee is currently undertaking an inquiry into family support services. This follows discussion during the passing of the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006.The Scottish Executive is currently in its second year of a three year reform of child protection in Scotland. The reform programme has developed a Children's Charter and Framework for Standards across agencies.
See related items below for further information.
Children's rights
Policy developments should be in line with and take account of children's rights.
Scotland appointed its first independent Commissioner for Children and Young People, Kathleen Marshall in April 2004.
The Commissioner for Children and Young People (Scotland) Act was passed in March 2003 after 10 years of campaigning by children’s organisations.
One of the main job’s of the Commissioner is to promote and safeguard the rights of children and young people, making the UNCRC a reality in Scotland.
Adoption and Children (Scotland) Bill
Family support services inquiry
Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Bill
Joint Inspection of Children's Services and Inspection of Social Work Services Act 2006
Getting it right for every child: proposals for action, 21/06/05
21st century social work review, 14/05/05
Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006
Scottish Parliament's Justice 2 Committee Inquiry into youth justice report, 06/06/05
Parental Involvement Bill consultation responses
Pupil Motivation Inquiry
Early Year Inquiry
Child protection reform programme
Secure and safe homes for our most vulnerable children
Search this website for more information on policy developments affecting children and young people in Scotland. Visit the directory or use the search facility.
Information on these pages is impartial and does not reflect CiS opinion
The 4Nations Child Policy Network is a partnership between:
Children in Scotland
Children in Wales
Children in N. Ireland
and the
National Children's Bureau
