Residential Care Charter of Rights Working Group: terms of reference

Purpose

The purpose of the Residential Care Charter of Rights Short Life Working Group is to develop a child-friendly, rights-based charter that sets out what children and young people placed into residential care in Scotland can expect throughout the duration of their placement. The charter will also provide clarity on what rights and entitlements exist, how to access them and where to go for support. 

While the charter is intended for use by all children placed into residential care in Scotland, it will also include information specific for children placed cross-border from elsewhere in the UK. This will be particularly key as the new cross-border regulations come into force in early 2026. 

Objectives 

The group will:

• identify and articulate the rights, entitlements, and standards of care for children in residential care in Scotland in a child friendly way
• ensure the charter is accessible and meaningful to children and young people placed into residential care in Scotland, including those placed cross-border.
• share learning, where relevant, with other policy areas in Scottish Government

Membership 

Members of the SLWG have specific expertise in supporting children living in residential care. Some organisations and individuals work directly with children living in, or have previously lived in, residential care in Scotland. This expertise allows members to represent the interests and views of their organisation and/or children and young people themselves. 

The working group will be led by the Scottish Government (SG) and chaired by Claire Grant, Senior Policy Manager, Children’s Residential Care Unit. Membership will include representatives from relevant stakeholders across sectors, including (but not limited to), this list of members.

Other individuals and organisations may be consulted on relevant issues if agreed by the SLWG. Such individuals and organisations may be invited to attend meetings as and when appropriate.

Frequency of meetings 

Initially, the group will meet at least once per month, with dates and times to be confirmed.  However, the frequency of meetings will be kept under review. Additional meetings or sub-group sessions may be scheduled as required. 

Deliverables 

The SLWG will oversee the development of a child-friendly residential care charter of rights, co-developed with stakeholders. The charter, and any supporting materials, will be published in 2026. 

Roles and responsibilities

• Chair (Claire Grant, SG): To provide strategic oversight, facilitate discussion, and ensure timely progress
• Scottish Government: To co-ordinate and support the group’s work, including minute taking and project management
• members: To actively participate, contribute expertise, and engage in the co-design process

Decision-making 

The group will aim to work by consensus. Where consensus cannot be reached, the Chair will facilitate further discussion and seek a resolution aligned with the group’s core principles and objectives. 

Review 

The terms of reference may be reviewed and amended at any time during the duration of the group’s activities. Revision(s) should be requested by written communication and will be considered by the Chair.