Question reference: S6W-15793
- Date lodged: 9 March 2023
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Current status: Answered by Clare Haughey on 23 March 2023
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in relation to the national service specification for secure transport, jointly developed with COSLA, whether the relevant minister will meet with representatives of the Hope Instead of Handcuffs campaign to discuss long-term solutions for regulating secure transport, including to prevent transport providers restraining children in care.
Answer
The Scottish Government is aware of the issues facing Scottish local authorities in relation to secure transport, reflecting many of those matters highlighted by the Hope Instead of Handcuffs campaign.
There are no current plans for Ministers to meet with campaign representatives. However, Scottish Government officials met with representatives of the campaign on 13 March to discuss the ongoing multi-agency work to develop solutions to these issues, including the development of a service specification.