Blog by Maree Todd MSP, Minister for Children and Young People

Happy new year! I am excited to be entering 2020 as this is, of course, the year when children’s entitlement to funded early learning and childcare will nearly double.

From August 2020, all 3 and 4 year olds, and around a quarter of 2 year olds, will be eligible for 1140 hours of early learning and childcare a year. funded by the Scottish Government and local authorities. That’s 30 hours a week if taken during school term time, or 22 hours a week year round.


Read more

Blog: LGBT history month

by Peter Macleod, Chief Executive

As you may know, LGBT History Month takes place in February each year. It is an important opportunity to celebrate and show support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) culture and history.

I support those in the LGBT community and work with colleagues to ensure that LGBT issues are considered as an inclusive part of our overall activities.


Read more

Coronavirus – update from the Scottish Government

The Scottish Government have issued a letter from the Chief Medical Officer, Dr Catherine Calderwood with an update on the coronavirus. You can read the letter here


Read more

Annual returns have now closed

Annual returns have now closed. Thank you to everyone who completed their annual return by 14 February 2020. 


Read more

Joint inspection of services for older people in the Scottish Borders - progress review

Services for older people in the Scottish Borders are improving, say inspectors after a follow-up inspection by Healthcare Improvement Scotland and the Care Inspectorate.

The original inspection of services for older people in 2017 had identified some strengths in the delivery of services, but also significant weaknesses which resulted in 13 recommendations for improvement.


Read more