Parents who have had a child taken into care will receive support
from community services through £900,000 of Scottish Government
funding this year.
The annual investment, delivered through the Corra Foundation,
will be shared in 2024-25 by 11 organisations who work closely
with birth parents who see their mental health decline following
the loss of their child.
Many of these parents have dealt with multiple traumatic life
events, such as childhood trauma, substance misuse, mental health
issues or experience of domestic abuse.
The community organisations work to help empower birth parents to
take control of their lives, develop new skills and build their
self-confidence.
Health Secretary said:
“The Scottish Government is committed to keeping The Promise and
keeping families together where it is safe to do so. Taking a
child into care should only be done in the best interests of the
wellbeing of that child. It is a hugely traumatic experience that
impacts on the whole family, and doesn't just stop.
“Sadly it is often the case that birth parents are left with
little support after their child is taken into care – leaving
them isolated having to deal with the situation alone, often when
they are at their lowest point. However, much evidence and
positive outcomes have been gathered by those working with birth
parents as part of this programme.
“Feedback from birth parents involved in the programme to date
has been extremely positive, with some calling it ‘life
changing'. I am pleased we can continue this and show our
appreciation for the Corra Foundation and all the groups they
work with and the parents they support.”
Carolyn Sawers, Corra CEO said:
“The funded services provide vital support to birth mums and
dads. The relational, compassionate support the organisations
provide means birth parents feel safe, valued and cared for.”
Background
The Scottish Government are supported by the Corra Foundation to
deliver the “Supporting Birth Parents Whose Child(ren) Have Been
Permanently Removed From Their Care Fund”. This fund supports the
development and delivery of local support services for parents
and families who have had at least one child taken into care.
Further information on the
Corra Foundation
