One of Scotland’s biggest social care charities is stepping up its policy influence — aiming to put the voices of vulnerable people at the centre of future health and care decisions.
Quarriers Joins Forces With Voluntary Health Scotland
Quarriers, which supports thousands of people across Scotland, has officially joined Voluntary Health Scotland (VHS). The move marks a clear shift in how charities shape national conversations on poverty, disability rights, and health inequalities.
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With this partnership, Quarriers will now have a bigger seat at the table in policy discussions that touch on everything from funding reforms to frontline care standards.
New Role, Bigger Impact
To make this work, Quarriers has created its first-ever dedicated policy and external relations officer role — a sign the charity is serious about ramping up its voice.
Ewan Carmichael, who’s stepped into the post, says it’s about time organisations like Quarriers used their frontline experience to push for change.
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“We see every day how decisions made in Holyrood play out in people’s lives,” Carmichael said. “So we have a responsibility to make sure those voices are heard loud and clear.”
Influencing Policy from the Ground Up
For charities like Quarriers, the biggest strength lies in lived experience. Frontline workers, families, and people with disabilities all bring stories that policymakers can’t ignore.
Here’s what the new approach will focus on:
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Responding to government consultations quickly and clearly.
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Getting involved in parliamentary committees.
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Building cross-sector coalitions with other charities and health bodies.
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A spokesperson for VHS said they’re delighted to welcome Quarriers to the fold, describing the charity’s insight as “invaluable” for tackling stigma and inequality.
More Than Words — Action on Inequality
This partnership isn’t just another logo on a website. It’s part of a wider push to fix deep-rooted issues in Scotland’s social care system — from staff shortages and funding pressures to the rights of disabled people being overlooked.
A short look back shows how charities have shaped care policy before:
| Year | Charity Action | Policy Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Social Care Alliance campaign | Pushed for Carers (Scotland) Act |
| 2020 | Covid-19 collaboration | Influenced PPE and care home guidance |
| 2025 | Quarriers joins VHS | Focus on inequalities and inclusion |
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Leaders in the sector say the next big challenge will be making sure the new National Care Service actually listens to people at the sharp end.
A United Front for Social Care Reform
Quarriers’ move comes at a time when the Scottish Government is under pressure to prove its care reforms will actually deliver.
The National Care Service Bill, Anne’s Law, and recent funding debates all show just how much is at stake.
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By pooling expertise with VHS and other members, Quarriers hopes to show how charity insights can shape better policies — not just in reports, but in the real world.
