Scottish Ministers seek to appoint an external service provider for the provision of Secure Transport and Escort of Children.

Scottish Ministers are responsible for the placement and management of children under the age of 18 who are sentenced to detention by the courts, including responsibility for their secure transportation. Legislative changes introduced through the Children (Care and Justice) (Scotland) Act 2024 reinforce Scotland’s commitment to a rights-based, trauma-informed, child-centred justice system. The service will provide secure transport and escort services for children between courts, secure centres, hospitals, and other premises across Scotland. This will include, but is not limited to planned, unplanned and standby escorts, and custody and supervision at court, and transfer arrangements when a child reaches the age of 18, where required. The Service will only cover children whose secure transport and escort are the responsibility of Scottish Ministers. The contract is anticipated to commence in January 2027 for a period of 36 months with the option to extend by up to a further 24 months.