ABSTRACT
The place of children in Scottish society, as in other societies throughout the world, is a dilemma that has exercised the hearts and minds of politicians, professionals and the public down through the ages. The traditions of childcare work have a long history in the efforts of people such as William Quarrier and Thomas Barnardo. Many of these efforts at the turn of this century were directed toward emigration and a 'better life' in the 'new world'. This chapter explores some of the central issues in child care policy formation and delivery. It looks at the particular areas of health, education and homelessness as they impact on the lives of children and young people. The problem of homelessness for many children in Scotland is the adverse effect which this has on the ability of families to remain together. Accommodation of homeless families in units designed for this purpose is often wanting in privacy and of a fairly poor standard.
