Lorraine Moore – Q&A with SCRA Board Member

Interested in finding out what it’s like being a Board Member for SCRA? Find out what made current Board Member Lorraine Moore apply …

Can you remember what made you apply for the Board Member vacancy?

Yes! began my career in the early years sector within communities heavily impacted by poverty and deprivation, before transitioning into youth work for underserved populations. Later, I specialised in advocating for the rights of care-experienced individuals across Scotland. Having directly supported numerous children and young people through Children’s Hearings, I have seen firsthand the profound difference a high-quality Hearing can make to a young life.

My lived care experience, professional social work qualification, and advocacy expertise provide a powerful triangle of perspective that closely mirrors the tripartite nature of the Children’s Hearing approach. Joining the board presented an opportunity to engage with our care system from a different lens and oversee its operational running.

My commitment to children’s rights is unwavering; I have always looked beyond the paperwork to see the unique child behind it. Every child in Scotland deserves the best start and the highest quality support, but care-experienced children require that lifeline more than any other group. My ultimate goal is to ensure that care-experienced children are empowered to be the primary architects of their own futures and that’s what attracted me to apply.

How did you find the process of applying?

I (strangely) genuinely enjoy completing application forms. They provide a valuable opportunity to reflect, review past achievements, and revisit my career journey. They force me to pause for a moment, reminding me of what truly matters and showing me how I have the skills, knowledge, and experience to contribute in a completely different way than before.

What was your first Board meeting like?

Admittedly, joining the Board was a bit nerve-wracking, which is entirely understandable given the responsibilities involved. However, no single individual possesses the comprehensive expertise required for total governance. Success relies strictly on the collective capability of the group, and my specific skills serve to complement that collective strength, this is something I have learned as I go and something I always keep in mind.

What work were you involved with as a Board Member?

I have been involved in Keeping the Promise workstreams, visiting Children’s Hearings centres and meeting staff teams to hear directly about their work. Alongside participating in full staff conferences, I currently Chair the Workforce Governance Committee .

What’s been the highlights of your time as a Board Member?

I am passionate about children’s rights. Seeing Keeping the Promise workstreams weave through SCRA’s work to form a clear direction was highly encouraging. Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact on children, young people, and families when their rights are not upheld, this alignment was deeply important to me.

Equally rewarding has been the opportunity to understand SCRA’s internal operations and to really have an opportunity to learn from the diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives of my fellow Board Members.

Would you apply again?

Absolutely, I think being on my second term is a big give away!

It has been a huge learning curve for me, and one I have enjoyed every step of the way. Working for an organisation that sees the children and families who need us most – and supports them in the kindest, most caring way – is exactly the culture we should have when serving families in Scotland who need it most.