The #LoveRally

I had the opportunity today to join the Children’s Hearings Scotland members taking part in the second LoveRally to support care experienced young people.

It was held in Glasgow and sent out a strong message to anyone who would listen that the care system needs fundamental reform. It should be permeated with love for those in the system, thinking about what they need rather than what is convenient for processes and systems.

It was a privilege to be there and a great opportunity to meet up with many of the colleagues and care experienced young people I and CHS have worked with over the past few years.

Many of the stories at the end of the rally in George Square were moving and filled with loss. Loss of friends from suicide. Loss of relationships with siblings. Loss of childhood.

It was very encouraging to hear the Deputy First Minister, John Swinney MSP, strongly reaffirm the Scottish Government’s commitment to act on the forthcoming independent review of care and setting out what has already been done. He committed to take Scotland forward in a way that respects the values and ethos of Getting it Right for Every Child: making sure that they are, amongst other things, respected, safe and included.

Indeed he quoted from the CHS banner, in the blip, to describe what we want to achieve.

Back to Edinburgh to relieve the dog ( everyone else was out too), do some shopping and visit the aunt before slumping in front of Strictly.