Social Work Scotland response to the Future of Secure Care and Single Point of Contact for Victims Consultation
April 2026
Introduction
Social Work Scotland (SWS) is the professional body for social work leaders, working closely with our partners to shape policy and practice, and improve the quality and experience of social services. We share the Scottish Government’s commitment to reforming and improving secure care, and over a longer timeframe, significantly reimagining how Scotland supports children and young people who require intensive support and supervision. With that aim in mind, we welcomed this opportunity to comment on proposals. Our response should be read alongside our earlier response to the Children’s (Care and Justice) (Scotland) Act.
The reflections within this response are drawn from consultation with our membership, which comprises senior leaders in local social work, including Chief Social Work Officers, service and team managers from across the country (in both local authorities and third sector), and who are involved in delivery of services to children and adults.
