Midlothian Council launches new initiative to strengthen trust between care-experienced young people and professionals
A new initiative designed to help care-experienced young people feel safer and more connected to the professionals supporting them will be launched during Care Experienced Week in Scotland, which begins on Saturday 25 October.
Feedback from young people
The idea came directly from feedback from members of the Midlothian Champions Board, a group of young people who advocate for the rights of their peers. They highlighted they often know very little about the social workers and other professionals making decisions about their lives. Having personal details such as likes, dislikes, and hobbies would help build trust and make them feel more comfortable.
Simple but powerful step
In response, Children’s Services staff will now be encouraged to complete a short biography to share with the children they work with. This simple but powerful step aims to strengthen relationships and ensure young people feel valued and respected.
Council Leader support
Council Leader Councillor Kelly Parry, who spent part of her childhood in care, said: “The new biographies are a fantastic example of how listening to young people and acting on what they tell us can make a huge difference in keeping Midlothian’s Promise to help them grow up feeling loved, safe, and respected, so they can realise their full potential.”
Promise pledges
The initiative will be launched as part of Care Experienced Week, which this year focuses on Children’s Rights. Throughout the week, Midlothian Council’s senior officers and corporate parents – including Council Leader Councillor Parry and Chief Executive Grace Vickers – will share their Promise pledges to care-experienced children, young people, and families.
Raising awareness
Pledges will be shared across the council’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and X, to raise awareness and celebrate the voices of care-experienced young people.
Champion children's rights
Council Leader Cllr Parry, pictured above, said: “I’m honoured to support Care Experienced Week in Midlothian by making my own promise to listen to children and continue to honour, support, and champion their rights.
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More about Midlothian’s Promise: The Promise | Midlothian Council
More about Care Experienced Week in Scotland: Scotland's Care Experienced Week 2025 runs from 25 October 25 to 1 November, with a theme of "Rights," celebrating the UNCRC articles. The week is organized by groups like Who Cares? Scotland and focuses on connecting the care-experienced community and promoting their rights. Events and activities will highlight the importance of children's rights, support The Promise Scotland initiatives.