Named person proposals ‘will make real difference’

The Scottish Government has said that the named person plan will 'make a real difference'. Picture: Lisa Ferguson

Ministers today unveiled plans to press ahead with a consultation on the change after a court challenge was kicked out last week.

The overhaul will roll-out a system which has already been operating in Highland, Edinburgh, Fife Angus and South Ayrshire. It means every child will have a named person - usually a social worker of teacher - who they can go to for advice, support and help.

The named person would also report suspected abuse in line with the current duty of care that teachers already have.

The consultation seeks views on the proposals to make sure those who work with families provide consistent support.

The No 2 Named Person campaign group has challenged the move, amid claims of excessive state interference in family life and usurping the role of parents. The court challenge fell last week.

But acting children’s minister Fiona McLeod said today: “It’s being introduced across the country after parents and children asked for it, as a single point of contact, building on the traditional supportive role of teachers, doctors, nurses and health visitors.

“By encouraging children’s services to work together with the best interests of families at the centre of everything they do we will ensure they make a real difference to the lives of our children and young people.”

Families and youngsters will know who their nominated named person is, but don’t have to use the service, ministers say.

They can be approached for advice and support and can be approached by children if they have worries over things like exam, sleeping problems or bullying.