NHS Lanarkshire has introduced a new plan aimed at supporting care-experienced young people. The initiative, known as the "corporate parenting" commitment, outlines how the health board will fulfill its duty to protect the rights, promote the well-being, and improve the life opportunities of children, young people, and adults who have experienced the care system.
Aligned with The Promise Scotland
This plan closely aligns with The Promise Scotland, the nation's commitment to ensuring that care-experienced children, young people, and families feel loved, safe, and respected as the country works to transform the care system by 2030.
Key Leadership Role
Beth-Anne McDowall, NHS Lanarkshire's Promise Lead Officer—the only person in such a role within a Scottish health board—oversaw the development of this new corporate parenting initiative.
McDowall stated: "We have 1,394 children and young people experiencing care in Lanarkshire, along with thousands more who have previously been in care. Every interaction with a care-experienced person can have a profound impact. A routine 10-minute appointment can leave a lasting impression."
Commitment to Action
She emphasized the need for a consistent, committed approach: "This plan must ensure we stand beside care-experienced people, listen to them, remove barriers, fight for their rights, and help them feel safe, supported, and able to thrive. We will listen, take decisive action, and collaborate with partners across emergency services, education, social work, the charity sector, and community services to ensure every child grows up loved, safe, and respected."
McDowall acknowledged the challenges faced by care-experienced individuals: "They have phenomenal potential, yet many continue to face difficulties and barriers that others do not. Consistent testimonies reveal a lack of support, nurture, compassion, and care, leaving them feeling unheard and unvalued."
She added: "This plan is NHS Lanarkshire's commitment to being a 'good parent' to these children and young people. We look forward to working with them to ensure they receive the healthcare they need and deserve. I thank the young people who shared their stories to help create this plan. We understand the emotional toll and are grateful for their trust."
To learn more about the multiple actions NHS Lanarkshire is planning, the full Corporate Parenting Plan is available for review.
