Too much of The Promise to Scotland’s young still ‘on paper’, ministers warned

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The Oversight Board, set up to monitor progress on the national commitment to ensure children and young people in care grow up in safe environments so they can realise their full potential, has warned resources were not matching demand, including a shortage of suitable care places.

David Anderson, who chairs the board, acknowledged that “progress has been made,” but added: “After six years the country should be much further forward.

“A house is not a home because the plans exist — it becomes one when there is food in the cupboards, heat in the radiators and people who know they are safe, loved and belong.

“That is what delivery looks like in real life, and it is what Scotland must make happen.”

Labour MSP Katherine Sangster said the report was “a stark reminder of how much work we have left to do to deliver The Promise” and urged the Scottish government to “get on with it.”

The Promise Minister Siobhian Brown, said the Scottish government remains “absolutely committed” to make it work.

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