In a statement Jack Libby, Chief Social Work Officer, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has outlined that addressing the local shortage of foster carers is a current priority.
Jack Libby, Chief Social Work Officer said:
“A particular local challenge is the need for additional foster carers across the Outer Hebrides. The work led by Scottish Government on the future of foster care is welcomed. The planned national foster care recruitment campaign is a positive development, and the Comhairle hopes that together the work on the future of foster care and recruitment and retention sees both an increase in the number of carers, and that they are supported to develop strong relationships with those they care for. Along with the Scottish Government, we must focus on addressing systemic issues like lengthy approval processes or strict eligibility criteria, attracting new carers and supporting existing carers, enabling local efforts, streamlining processes, and ensuring robust support systems.”
“The Promise” is a 10-year commitment made by Scottish Government in 2020 that the conclusions of the Scottish Care Review would be implemented in full and that all children and young people will grow up loved, safe, and respected.
Further detail on the Comhairle’s work to keep the Promise is detailed in the Western Isles Integrated Children’s Services Plan.
Speaking on the work of the Comhairle in the 5 years since the promise was made, Jack Libby commented:
“We are at the midway point in time, and despite successes there is a great deal more to do in terms of implementing the changes required to Keep the Promise. The Comhairle is working hard to involve young people in the design of services and decision-making.
"The Comhairle’s passionate and compassionate social work and social care workforce provide early support so that families can stay together, asking them what they need and working with other experts and charities, such as The Shed and Action for Children who support families to deliver that. Interventions like additional support in schools to raise attainment and achievement outcomes for care experienced children is one example of the approach to accelerate progress.
"It is also important to recognise the significant contribution kinship carer make across the Outer Hebrides. Support must be made available to kinship carers to guide them through the crisis and, as part of this, to help them to respond effectively to trauma. The Comhairle is looking at reorganising how it supports kinship carers, assisting us on our journey in keeping The Promise. The promise is clear that where children are loved and where it is safe to do so, children should stay with their families.”