Compensation to be given to survivors of abuse in care

The Deputy First Minister has apologised to those who have suffered abuse while in care in Scotland and has announced a compensation scheme for the survivors.

John Swinney confirmed that the financial redress scheme will be passed by the end of this parliamentary term, and that advance payments will be made as soon as possible to survivors who may not live long enough to apply to a statutory scheme due to ill-health or age.

It is not yet know how much compensation the survivors will receive as the detail of a redress scheme requires legislation which has to be passed first in the Scottish Parliament.

Making the announcement, Swinney said: "Today, on behalf of the Scottish Government, I offer an unreserved and heartfelt apology to everyone who suffered abuse in care in Scotland. We are deeply ashamed of what happened.

"We will progress, without delay, to detailed design of a redress scheme, ensuring we learn lessons from other countries. We will move to make advance payments as soon as we possibly can, and will do so with urgency.

"I am determined we will have a redress scheme in Scotland which treats survivors with sensitivity and respect. Their courage and determination to speak out for justice and to protect children today and in the future from experiencing the abuse that they suffered is inspiring.”

The Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry is looking at the nature and extent of that abuse and the failures which allowed it to happen.

The inquiry will publish a report and recommendations in due course.