The Promise
In 2016, the First Minister commissioned the Independent Care Review to bring lasting change to Scotland’s care system. The aim was to improve policy, practice, and culture for care-experienced infants, children, young people, adults, and their families - ensuring every child grows up loved, safe, and respected, with the opportunity to reach their full potential.
The Care Review gathered over 5,500 voices from those living and working in and around the care system. It concluded in February 2020 with the publication of seven detailed reports, including the key report The Promise.
Following its publication, the First Minister and organisations across Scotland pledged to #KeepThePromise - a commitment to deliver the changes needed.
The Promise in Highland
To support the delivery of The Promise locally, Highland appointed a Programme Manager in January 2022. This role leads the work to embed The Promise’s vision across services in Highland.
National implementation
The Scottish Government endorsed The Promise Scotland’s Plan 2021–24 as the first step toward full implementation. This plan focused on five priority areas:
- the right to a childhood
- whole family support
- supporting the workforce
- planning
- building capacity
Work is now progressing under Plan 24–30, helping organisations plan and deliver the next phase of change.