Sector has a key part to play in children's wellbeing

Voluntary organisations are crucial to children’s wellbeing, a conference in Tayside will be told today.

Decision makers from the region’s education, social work and health sectors will gather with third sector groups to discuss how best to support the needs of children.

A new film will spotlight vital work carried out by voluntary organisations in children’s support groups, education, health and wellbeing, and in child protection.

Christine Lowden, chief executive of Dundee Voluntary Action, said that the value and range of voluntary sector work with children and families was not well understood.

“Voluntary organisations are absolutely core to delivering services for children and families in Tayside. Our sector is a major employer throughout Tayside, but our paid staff are only part of the picture,” she said.

“We make a huge difference to the lives of children and families – a really positive contribution.

"The thousands of volunteers who run after school clubs, playgroups, junior football teams, computer coding classes, uniformed organisations, counselling and much more deliver the kind of value which the public purse could never afford.

“Of course many children living in poverty are fed by foodbanks, which are run by voluntary organisations. Clothes banks are providing essential clothing such as school uniforms and warm winter clothing.”

In the video, Scotland’s Children’s Commissioner, Bruce Adamson, stresses that funding voluntary organisations is vital.

Adamson said: “For me it’s about making sure the public sector realises the value of supporting and funding civic society organisations.

“Working in partnership is essential – it’s the best way to deliver for children and secure their rights.”

The event has been organised by a coalition of voluntary organisations from Tayside.