What is your favourite memory of working at Who Cares? Scotland?
There are genuinely too many to mention, from every engagement with our members, to connection days with my colleagues. The times we’ve taken Care Experienced people to the Scottish Parliament stand out as being very special. On both occasions, our Advocacy Workers supported people to meet with MSPs from the Education, Children and Yong People Committee. They delivered insights into their experiences and their views on what improvements were needed to the system. This testimony has resulted in significant changes to policy and has been such a powerful example of collective advocacy.
What achievements are you most proud of?
Having witnessed the power of independent advocacy I wanted to ensure it became a statutory right for all Care Experienced people across Scotland, no longer hampered by differing definitions of eligibility; funding; age or a misunderstanding of who can be an advocate (all ongoing issues which mean not all Care Experienced people can access independent advocacy). I’m delighted to have been part of a team which created the Action on Advocacy campaign which secured cross-party and cross-sector support to pass stage 2 of the Children (Care, Care Experience, and Services Planning) (Scotland) Bill. I’ll be watching the final stage of the bill proceedings and hoping to secure this monumental win for the community.
How has leading Who Cares? Scotland shaped you personally and professionally?
I came into this role with strong personal connections to the Care Experienced community and I leave with even more. I see the challenges of policy implementation, despite the best intentions of those working in the sector, and the real-life impact of that. As a result, I will continue to champion the rights of Care Experienced people. As an adoptive parent, I’m delighted that my son and the rest of the care community have an organisation there for them, from supporting their rights to raising awareness of the experience of care.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to our members?
Everyone’s experience of care is unique but what connects you is the right to a lifetime of equality, respect and love. Demand access to independent advocacy to ensure you are aware of your rights and supported (if needed) to have those rights upheld.
For anyone thinking about getting involved – why does Who Cares? Scotland matter and why should they join us?
‘Who Cares? Scotland is the only organisation focused on the rights of Care Experienced people, irrespective of age or care experience. With that comes huge privilege and the opportunity to genuinely change lives. It’s not always easy and it takes a lot of resilience, but if you are committed to our vision, then Who Cares? Scotland is the organisation for you.’
Thank you, Louise, for everything you have given to this organisation and to the Care Experienced community. We know this won’t be the last we hear from you!
We are currently recruiting for our next Chief Executive. Find our more information here.
