CELCIS Support to Improve and Sustain Family Group Decision Making Services in Highland, Midlothian and South Lanarkshire: Summary of Learning
Topic: Child protection, Local authority, Early Help
Author: Mihaela Manole, Laura Quinn, Deborah Byrne, Linda Davidson and Jane Scott, CELCIS
As a member of the Scottish Family Group Decision Making (FGDM) Steering Group, CELCIS is committed to supporting FGDM coordinators, managers and practitioners in Scotland as more local authorities adopt this approach in their work with children, young people and adults.
In 2025, CELCIS provided short-term support to three Scottish local authority areas - Highland, Midlothian, and South Lanarkshire - to strengthen the local implementation of FGDM services through facilitated learning and action planning. FGDM services are delivered directly by Highland and Midlothian Councils, while in South Lanarkshire they are delivered through a partnership between the Council and Children First.
This report summarises the key activities involved, insights gained and the wider national implications for strengthening FGDM practice across Scotland.