Children’s legislative review reaches midway point

Date: 7th September 2026
Category: General measures of implementation

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The independent Children’s Legislative Review, commissioned by the Scottish Government and led by Professor Kenneth Norrie with support from CELCIS, has reached its halfway point. The review is looking at Scotland’s laws relating to children, young people and families, with the aim of making the current legal framework clearer, simpler and easier to use.

More than 200 people have taken part in a national survey, alongside workshops and discussions with children’s care professionals, organisations and experts. Early findings show strong support for children’s rights but highlight concerns that current legislation can be complicated and difficult to navigate. The review is exploring issues including kinship care, criminal justice, permanence, accommodation for children and young people, and strengthening the UNCRC.

Together has continued to highlight the need for children’s care legislation to be brought within the scope of the UNCRC (Scotland) Act 2024. Currently, several key pieces of legislation - such as the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968 and the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 - fall outwith the reach of the UNCRC Act as they were passed by the UK Parliament before devolution.

The next stage of the review will focus on developing and testing practical solutions. The final recommendations are expected in February 2027.

·       For more information visit Children’s Legislative Review webpage