Remembering Bill Dunbar, lifelong children’s champion

Bill Dunbar worked for nearly 35 years for Scotland’s national children’s charity, Children First. A lifelong children’s champion, Bill, who sadly died on 25 March 2026 aged 89, was an immeasurable presence in the Scottish Borders throughout the 1970’s, 80’s and 90’s.

He joined Children First as an Inspector in 1968 when the charity was known as the Royal Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children (RSSPCC) and played a crucial role in the development of the Borders’ service.

Beginning his working life in the army, Bill completed two years of National Service before moving to his home town Stranraer, where he ran a newsagent. It was there that he became close friends with a local Royal Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children (RSSPCC) Inspector and forged a relationship that sparked his interest in child protection. Bill applied speculatively for a position with the RSSPCC and was offered a role as an Inspector.

In this role, Bill investigated cases of abuse or neglect reported by members of the public, the police and local authorities, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to safeguarding children. Bill described the role of Inspector as, “Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.” The work was all encompassing and Bill said, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

One of his earliest memories as an Inspector was of a baby being left on the doorstep of his home in Galashiels, shortly after the RSSPCC Inspector sign had been put up. It was a powerful reminder of the trust local families placed in him and the responsibility that came with the role.

From the outset, Bill worked tirelessly to build and maintain strong relationships between Children First and key partners across the Scottish Borders. He understood that effective support for children and families depended on close collaboration with the local authority,

police and health services and dedicated himself to fostering those connections throughout his career.

There was nothing Bill would not turn his hand to, to promote or raise vital funds for Children First. Whether it was a fete, gala or any local community event, Bill would be there with a stall, promoting the charity’s work and raising vital funds. He always led with enthusiasm and commitment and at one time turned his hand to running a thrift shop in Galashiels to promote and bring in fundraising income.

Bill worked closely with the late Margaret Mills, forming a formidable partnership supporting children and families throughout the Scottish Borders for over thirty years. The parents’ and peer groups that Margaret and Bill organised throughout the 1970s and 80s were the inspiration for the establishment of the Ettrick Family Resource Centre in Selkirk in 1990. 

This centre laid the foundation for today’s Children First service in the Scottish Borders and has gone on to support thousands of children and families over the decades, a legacy in which Bill played an essential and lasting role.

Bill also dedicated significant time to training and mentoring prospective social workers across the Scottish Borders, helping to guide and encourage a new generation of practitioners. His calm wisdom, experience and generosity of spirit made him a valued mentor to many who went on to build their own careers in supporting children and families.