Why did you take on this role and what do you hope to achieve being chair?
Taking on the role of Chair at Who Cares? Scotland is a way of bringing my professional and personal experience to help shape a future where every Care Experienced person feels seen, heard, and valued. As someone who is Care Experienced, this role is personal. It’s not just a professional step, it’s about me giving something to my community.
The big picture thing is that I want to help build a Scotland where Care Experienced people are not only supported but celebrated. That means strengthening our advocacy, deepening our influence in policy, and ensuring that views and opinions of our members are at the heart of every decision. I also hope to foster a culture where people feel they belong, not just in our organisation, but in society.
What parts of our work resonates with you the most?
The organisation’s unapologetic focus on rights, identity, and belonging speaks directly to my own values, and something that I feel was missing when I was a child in care. I’m especially drawn to the way Who Cares? Scotland creates platforms for Care Experienced people to lead, not just participate. The emphasis on storytelling, activism, and systemic change reflects the kind of work I’ve always believed in – work that’s rooted in lived experience and driven by justice.
What do you see as the most pressing issues facing Care Experienced people in Scotland today?
Stigma remains a major barrier – it shapes how Care Experienced people are treated in education, employment, housing, and relationships. There’s also a lack of continuity in support, especially as people transition into adulthood. We need to move beyond crisis responses and build systems that offer long-term stability, connection, and opportunity.
With stigma also comes shame, with many Care Experienced people feeling that they can’t be open about who they are, for fear of being judged or their contribution to discussions minimised. Crucially, we need to ensure that Care Experienced people are leading these conversations, not just being consulted.
‘What message would you like to send to our Care Experienced members across Scotland?
You have power. You are worthy. And you are not alone. With support from Who Cares? Scotland you can be strong and be heard by people who make decisions. Your experiences matter – not just as stories of survival, but as sources of strength and leadership. Who Cares? Scotland is here to stand with you, fight for you, and celebrate you.
‘As Chair, I promise to listen to your voice, protect and promote your rights, and together alongside Who Cares? Scotland staff we can help build a Scotland where you can thrive.’
We are thrilled that Michael will be taking on this important role. His deep understanding of both the care system and the challenges facing Care Experienced people, combined with his professional expertise and lived experience, makes him the ideal person to lead our board at this crucial time.
We look forward to working with him as we continue to strive for a lifetime of equality, respect and love for Care Experienced people.
