Inquiry into Historical Child Abuse begins
The Inquiry will examine any instance where a child was abused ‘in care’, at institutions including residential care provided by faith based organisations; children’s homes and secure care. The scope will also include those placed in foster care.
For the purposes of the Inquiry the term ‘in care’ will carry a broader interpretation beyond those formally placed in care by the state. It will include allegations of abuse affecting boarded out children; child migrant schemes; and school hostels and health care establishments providing long term care for children. Independent boarding schools will also be included.
Jennifer Davidson, Director, of CELCIS, based at the University of Strathclyde, welcomed the independent inquiry into the historical abuse of children in care in Scotland, which starts today. Jennifer said:
'This is an historic day for the people of Scotland, particularly survivors and their supporters who have campaigned for a long time to be heard. I hope that survivors can find a way to use their painful experiences and memories to get answers and to ensure this doesn’t happen again.
'The Inquiry has created an independent website to give information about how individuals and organisations can engage with the Inquiry'.