Bill Kidd, SNP MSP for Glasgow Anniesland, has called on the Minister for Children and Young People to provide further details on the steps being taken to ensure that children and young people are actively empowered, involved, and included in both the current and future delivery of The Promise

The Promise in Scotland is a national commitment to improve the lives of care-experienced children and young people. It aims to ensure that every child in care is supported to reach their full potential, with a focus on building trusting relationships, providing stability, and prioritizing the voices and experiences of those affected. Established following the independent review of children's care, The Promise seeks to reshape Scotland’s care system to be more compassionate, child-centred, and responsive to the needs of vulnerable children and young people. The initiative drives the transformation of policies, services, and practices, ensuring that care-experienced individuals are empowered and included in decisions that impact their lives.

In response to Bill Kidd’s question, Natalie Don-Innes, Minister for Children and Young People, emphasized that the voice of care-experienced children, young people, and adults is at the heart of the ongoing work across Scotland. She further explained, "The Scottish Government continues to build that voice through the breadth of consultation and engagement that is undertaken at a national level."

The Minister added, "I want to continue to ensure that children and young people feel empowered and included, and I want to ensure that we continue to reach as many young people as possible, including those who might not have engaged before."

In response Bill said: “I am glad the Minister is taking steps to ensure that young people are being heard, especially those who have not yet engaged and I will continue to press the Government to ensure that the voices of all children are heard.”