Welcoming Amy Woodhouse, our new CEO

This week we have a new CEO! Amy Woodhouse joins us to focus our collective efforts on what matters most for children and families across Scotland in these particularly difficult times.

With almost one in four children in Scotland living in poverty, and many parents struggling to make ends meet, PAS, alongside its partners, has much to do. However, there are also opportunities ahead with Scotland about to incorporate the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) into law and hoped for improvements to children’s rights and children’s lives.

Together with a strengthened board and refreshed strategy, Amy will advocate for parents and families to push for change to improve children’s lives. Having previously worked as head of policy, projects and participation at Children in Scotland with two periods as joint interim CEO, she is well placed to do so.

Commenting on her new post, Amy said:

"It is a privilege to be taking on this role. I have known PAS for many years and admire its outstanding work to ensure that all parents and families are valued and supported to give children the best start in life.

"The work of PAS is vital. We need strong advocates calling for good decisions in the Scottish Government to improve children’s and families’ lives. This will only happen if we work collaboratively across the sector. PAS is in an excellent position to build on the knowledge and wisdom of its members to push for change."

Neil Mathers, chair of PAS, said:

"I am delighted to welcome Amy to PAS. She brings a wealth of third sector leadership experience and a passion for our work.

"Amy’s career has focused on how she can use evidence to create change at policy and practice levels. She is firmly committed to listening to and working with individuals and communities whose voices and experiences are seldom heard.

"Our work and that of our member organisations has never been more relevant. I am thrilled that in Amy we have such an inspirational leader to bring our strategy to life."