Care standards become law

Young people will be given greater protection

New regulations to protect young and vulnerable people throughout Scotland have come into force.

The regulations form part of the Regulation of Care (Scotland) Act, which introduces new national standards drawn up by the National Care Standards Committee.

The Minister for Education and Young People, Cathy Jamieson, said the move would cater for the needs and aspirations of children and young people.

Cathy Jamieson: "Delivering high quality"

This legislation, which also sets national standards of care for Scotland's elderly people, was passed by the Scottish Parliament last year.

Deputy Health Minister Hugh Henry said the move will ensure that a consistent quality of care is provided north of the border.

Three new sets of care standards will be introduced to cover the way young children are treated in nursery schools, play clubs and residential schools and by registered childminders.

These will cover issues such as safety, health and hygiene, the training of staff, appropriate education and the need for enough space and playtime.

Half a million Scots need care services at any one time

Hugh Henry, deputy health minister

Ms Jamieson said consistency of standards was paramount in protecting young and vulnerable people.

"We are delivering high quality care services with consistent standards, and a robust system of regulation and inspection to oversee them," the minister said.

"Most importantly, the standards have been developed from the point of view of those actually using the services.

"National standards, backed up by the new Scottish Commission for the Regulation of Care, strengthen our commitment to put the needs and aspirations of children and young people first."

'Important step'

Mr Henry said: "Half a million Scots need care services at any one time.

"The likelihood is that we will all need them at some point in our lives.

"That is why it is important for those in need receive the highest quality of care, regardless of where they live.

"Today, we are taking another important step towards providing consistent quality across the country."

The new system will ensure people, and their families, know the level of care that is expected, the minister added.

He said the Scottish Executive was determined to help create better care services.