Scottish Councils Warn New Care Bill Is 'Not Deliverable' Due to Financial Concerns
Scotland's local authority umbrella body has issued a stark warning that a new care Bill scheduled for a final vote on Wednesday is 'not deliverable' due to significant financial concerns. The Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill aims to extend aftercare services for care-experienced young people, but councils fear the costs could be unsustainable.
Bill Details and Proposed Changes
The legislation seeks to allow individuals who left care before their 16th birthday to access aftercare services until they turn 26. Additionally, it would provide lifelong advocacy services to support care-experienced people throughout their lives. This move is part of broader efforts to improve outcomes for vulnerable young people in Scotland.
Financial Warnings from Cosla
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (Cosla) expressed serious reservations about the Bill's financial implications. Estimates suggest costs could reach approximately £270 million by the end of the decade, with Cosla warning these figures might be underestimates. The body has called for the government to pause the Bill and reintroduce it after the election to allow for more thorough scrutiny.
Statements from Cosla and Government
Tony Buchanan, Cosla's spokesman for children and young people, stated: 'We share the ambition to improve outcomes for children and young people, and remain fully committed to the promise, but this Bill as currently drafted is not deliverable. Without credible planning, realistic costings and a strong evidence base, there is a real risk of unintended consequences and missed opportunities for meaningful reform.' He urged policymakers to conduct more detailed analysis, including clearer cost modelling and evidence of impact.
A Scottish Government spokesperson responded: 'Ministers are committed to Keeping The Promise by 2030 and are determined to work with councils and partners to achieve that. If passed by Parliament, this Bill will provide a key package of legislative changes needed to support children and families. Collective efforts, including this legislation, have to be ambitious, and future funding decisions will be set out through the Scottish budget process.' The spokesperson highlighted progress, such as an 18% reduction in children identified as 'in care' since 2020.
Broader Context and Implications
The debate underscores tensions between local authorities and the Scottish Government over funding and policy implementation. Cosla's call for a pause reflects concerns about the sustainability of local services amid rising costs. The Bill's fate hinges on Wednesday's vote, with potential impacts on care-experienced young people and council budgets across Scotland.
