On 9 October 2024, the Scottish Government launched a public consultation on Developing a Universal Definition of ‘Care Experience’. The purpose of the consultation is to seek views on the need for a universal definition of the term ‘care experience’ and what the potential impacts of a universal definition could be.

The consultation also looks to gather views on wider language relating to care and build on existing good practice to consider if there is an opportunity to set a national direction for language of care which is nurturing and encouraging to children and young people with care experience.

Opportunity to get involved

The views of people with experience of care are important in considering next steps in these areas of work. A series of online workshops for people with lived experience are being held throughout January and into February 2025.

The purpose of these workshops is to provide the opportunity for people who have been through the care system and have experience of care to share their views and feedback on the consultation. The workshops will also cover the wider consultation process, set out why these areas are being consulted on and the areas of work that this is contributing towards to keep the Promise.

We are seeking to create a safe space where people feel comfortable to share their views and join the discussion during these workshops, and understand that everyone has an individual experience of care which is unique to them.

If you would like any further information please contact us on keepingthepromiseconsultations@gov.scot.