Dumfries and Galloways new 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.
For children and families in Dumfries and Galloway, this means coordinated support with fewer appointments in different locations, and a more compassionate response.
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.
Dumfries and Galloway is an Affiliate Partner within the national Bairns’ Hoose Pathfinder Phase, helping to shape how Bairns’ Hoose can be delivered effectively in rural areas.
Children and young people have helped shape every aspect of the Bairns’ Hoose, including choosing colours for the space.
Local partners have already made strong progress in improving how services work together. All joint investigative interviews in the region now use the Scottish Child Interview Model, a nationally recognised, trauma-informed approach that supports children to share their experiences in a safe and structured way. This is a key part of the Bairns’ Hoose approach, helping to reduce the need for children to repeat their story.
A second, satellite Bairns’ Hoose is also planned for the West of the region, helping ensure children and families across the region can access support closer to home.
Hamish McGhie, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Public Protection Partnership, said:
“The launch of the Bairns’ Hoose marks a major step forward for children and young people in Dumfries and Galloway.
“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.
“It reflects the strength of partnership working across our region and our shared commitment to improving outcomes for children and families.”
Dawn Roberts, Chief Executive of Dumfries and Galloway Council and Chair of the Public Protection Chief Officers Group, said:
“This is a significant milestone for Dumfries and Galloway and for everyone involved in protecting and supporting children.
“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.”
Mark Kelly, Executive Director of Nursing at NHS Dumfries and Galloway, said:
“The launch of Bairns’ Hoose reflects the commitment of partners across Dumfries and Galloway to transform how we support children affected by trauma. By working as one, we’re giving our young people a safer, simpler and more dignified experience”
The Bairns’ Hoose has been developed through strong partnership working between Dumfries and Galloway Council, NHS Dumfries and Galloway, Police Scotland and third sector partners.
Further investment in 2026/27 will help expand access, strengthen recovery services and support continued engagement with children and young people as the service develops.
One partner. No competitors. Full visibility across the region.
