government publication

This framework complements the Early Years Framework, and Equally Well, the report of the Ministerial Taskforce on Health Inequalities, all of which taken together form a coherent approach to addressing disadvantage in Scotland. This framework builds on the good work already underway across Scotland and illustrates progress with actions in support of our shared objectives.

This report gives the Scottish Government's response to the Scottish Advisory Committee on Drug Misuse-Essential Care Working Group Report 'Essential Care: a report on the approach required to maximise opportunity for recovery from problem substance misuse in Scotland'.

This response addresses each of the 15 recommendations, outlining both current and planned action by the Government and its delivery partners.

Document presenting estimates of the proportion and number of children, working age adults and pensioners living in low income households in Scotland. It also reports progress made towards hitting UK and Scottish Government targets on reducing poverty.

The Health and Social Care Act 2008 provided for regulations extending direct payments. This consultation, held between August and November 2008, questioned people about revising the existing regulations to allow a greater number of people to take advantage of direct payments.

Document reporting on the progress made since the launch of the Scottish Government's Plan for Action on Alcohol Problems in 2002.

It also lays out a three-year programme of action to change drinking cultures and reduce alcohol-related harm by government action, partnership working and promoting individual responsibility.

Safeguarders are persons who may be appointed by children’s hearings or sheriffs when they think this is required to safeguard the interests of the child in the proceedings. Their role is to provide support and advice for the proceedings.

The aim of this study is to describe and evaluate the current use and operation of safeguarders in Scotland.

The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs published 'Hidden Harm' which highlighted the plight of the estimated 41,000-59,000 children in Scotland affected by parental drug use. This resource describes the Scottish Executive's response to the challenges outlined in 'Hidden Harm'.

The purpose of this consultation paper is to explore how the law relating to the physical punishment of children can be modernised, so that it better protects children from harm. The aim of the consultation is to address two specific issues. First, within the context of a modern family policy, in a responsible society, where should we draw the line as to what physical punishment of children is acceptable within the family setting? Second, how do we achieve that position in law?

The Scottish Government is committed to addressing the challenges faced by children and young people who experience poor outcomes throughout their lives. To do this, services will need to be child-centred, responsive and joined up. Children and young people deserve services that can intervene more effectively and earlier in their lives and that listen and take full account of their views

This consultation paper sets out a vision for how to achieve this vision through legislation.