Bairns’ Hoose now up and running

A NEW service designed to better support children and young people who have experienced trauma or abuse has officially launched in Dumfries and Galloway.

The Bairns’ Hoose brings together services including health, social work and police in one child-friendly setting. This means children who have experienced trauma only need to tell their story once, reducing stress and helping them access the right support more quickly.

The approach is based on an international model and is part of a national programme to improve how Scotland supports children who have experienced or witnessed abuse or trauma.

Children and young people have helped shape every aspect of the Bairns’ Hoose, including choosing colours for the space.

A second, satellite Bairns’ Hoose is also planned for the west of the region.

Hamish McGhie, chair of Dumfries and Galloway Public Protection Partnership, said it marks a major step forward for children and young people locally.

He added: “This is about putting children at the centre of everything we do, making sure they feel safe, supported and listened to at what can be a very difficult time in their lives.”

Dumfries and Galloway Council chief executive Dawn Roberts described it as a ‘significant milestone’, adding: “By bringing key services together in one place, we are reducing trauma and making it easier for children and young people to access the help they need.

“We are proud of what has been achieved so far and remain committed to continuing to develop and strengthen this model, ensuring it works for all communities across our region.”