A HOLYROOD committee has called for views on a Scottish government Bill aimed at improving support for care-experienced young people.

The Bill forms the latest step in fulfilling The Promise — a Scottish government pledge to implement the findings of the independent review of care in 2020. 

If passed, the new legislation would extend aftercare for young care-experienced people — which includes help with education, housing and employment — from its present statutory conclusion at 18 years old, to 26, as well as giving them the right to lifelong advocacy services.

The plans would also create a national register of foster carers, and cap the profits organisations currently make in contracts with local authorities to care for vulnerable children. 

Launching the call to the public to offer their views on the proposals, convener of  Holyrood’s education, children and young people committee, Douglas Ross said:

“In 2020, the Independent Care Review set out a series of promises to Scotland’s care-experienced children and young people.

“We have kept a constant eye on progress towards meeting those promises and it is clear, from hearing from care-experienced young people and those supporting them, that there are many challenges still to overcome.

“The committee will look closely at this Bill, listen to the views of everyone affected by it, and assess whether it will bring about the changes needed to ensure that all care-experienced children and young people can enjoy the childhood they deserve.”

“If you are care-experienced, or work to support care-experienced children and young people, please share your views on the proposals in this Bill.”

The consultation is accessible on the Scottish parliament website, and will close on August 15, ahead of the committee’s evidence sessions when Holyrood returns from recess.