Written Question · S2W-01212 · Session 2
How long the proposed study of the pattern of services provided by voluntary organisations that support families in transition, as referred…
The question
To ask the Scottish Executive how long the proposed study of the pattern of services provided by voluntary organisations that support families in transition, as referred to in Parents and Children, will take from design to conclusion and whether, in order to facilitate as a matter of urgency the stable and adequate funding of voluntary organisations, it will initiate this study in advance of the introduction or passing of any family law bill, as referred to in A Partnership for a Better Scotland
The answer
The Scottish Executive is strongly committed to supporting families in transition and values the role of the voluntary sector in providing marriage and relationship support. Funding in this area has doubled since 2000 and in 2003-04, the family organisations will receive grants totalling £1.188 million. Three-quarters of this funding goes to family mediation organisations. An on-going external consultancy review is considering the funding arrangements and corporate governance of Family Mediation Scotland and affiliated local mediation services. The review is due to conclude in the autumn. A recent consultation on merging voluntary sector funding for services for children and young people sought views on whether grants for marriage and relationship support should be included in an integrated fund. The consultation responses are currently being analysed. The continued development of the role of the voluntary organisations in supporting families in transition will be informed by the family mediation review, the consultation responses on merging funding streams, and the regular discussions which take place between the family organisations and the Scottish Executive.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S2W-01212 by reference.