Do you manage or hold archival collections related to the history of social care in Scotland? Are you working with records that document the development of care services, institutions, and support networks for vulnerable individuals?

We are seeking archivists, volunteers, and organisations with an interest in exploring and improving access to historical records that shed light on Scotland’s social care history.

The history of social care in Scotland remains largely underexplored, with many key questions still unanswered:

• When and how did care services begin?
• Who made decisions about care provision, and what shaped their choices?
• How many adults and children received support over time?
• Where were care homes, orphanages, and other institutions located?
• What connections existed between Scottish care institutions and those across the UK and overseas?

By bringing together those responsible for managing historical records—whether in archives, libraries, community groups, or private collections—we aim to facilitate discussion, share knowledge, and strengthen preservation efforts.

If you hold relevant records, have insights to share, or are interested in collaborating on this research, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact Audrey Wilson at a.wilson@scottisharchives.org.uk to express your interest or to find out more.

📢 Feel free to share this with colleagues and networks who may be interested!