The Council has a legal duty, under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995, to safeguard and develop the welfare of children wherever possible in their home and community.

However, there are times when a child's interests are best met by providing care outwith the family home. The Children's Panel and the Sheriff Court can make legal orders that require the Council to look after and accommodate children. Parents, in partnership with Social Work, can also agree that it would be in a child's interests for them to be cared for in a children's unit or in a foster placement for a period of time.

Residential Child Care

East Dunbartonshire Council manage a Residential Child Care Unit which offers care and protection to young people - generally between 12 to 18 years of age.

The service provides accommodation together with personal care or personal support for young people by reason of their vulnerability or need. This can sometimes be the result of a breakdown in family circumstances causing concern for the young person’s safety and welfare.

Young people can be accommodated on a short or longer-term basis.

For further information please contact us.