Step-by-step guide
What happens when you apply for redress
Applying for redress in Scotland should not be difficult or complicated, but there are a few steps in the process. This is so that everyone who applies is treated the same way, and fairly. If you need help at any stage, you can ask for a case worker to help you >>
Step-by-step guide – you can watch this video which will take you through the 11 step process.
Please note that you can also download a PDF copy of the Step-by-step guide here.
The Scottish Government and Redress Scotland work together on Scotland’s redress scheme. To apply for redress, you have to visit a special Scottish Government website, which is not run by Redress Scotland.
Steps 1-4 are handled by the Scottish Government
Step 1: Start your application
You must complete Part 1 and either Part 2 (Fixed Rate Payment) or Part 3 (Individually Assessed Payment). A solicitor can give you independent legal advice on making an application. Full details of how to apply for redress are available on the Scotland’s Redress Scheme website.
Step 2: Send your application form to the Scottish Government
You can send in your application form to the Scottish Government at any point. A case worker will review your application and let you know if any information is missing.
Step 3: Complete your application
Once you’ve completed your application, a Scottish Government case worker will review it again, carry out the required checks and ask if you are ready for them to submit your application to Redress Scotland.
Step 4: Decide if you want to submit your application
If you are ready and want to go ahead with your application, your Scottish Government case worker will submit it to Redress Scotland on your behalf.
Steps 5-8 are handled by Redress Scotland
Step 5: Redress Scotland receive your application
Your application is allocated to a sitting panel and these panel members review and consider all of the documents in your application.
Step 6: The panel meets to make a decision
Panel members will meet to make a decision on your application.
Step 7: The panel might need more information
Sometimes panel members need more information before they can make
a decision. If they need more information they will ask you for this by writing a letter to your Scottish Government case worker.
Step 8: The panel sends the decision to the Scottish Government
The panel will make a decision and write a letter to tell you what they have decided. Redress Scotland will send the decision letter to your Scottish Government case worker.
Steps 9-11 are handled by the Scottish Government
Step 9: Receive a letter with the decision
The Scottish Government will send you the decision letter from Redress Scotland. If an offer is made you will also receive a legal waiver to sign.
A solicitor can give you independent legal advice about the waiver.
Step 10: Accept or reject the offer
You have 6 months to decide whether or not to accept the offer. You can also ask for a review of the application decision. Your Scottish Government case worker can tell you more about the review process.
Step 11: Receive your offer and access support
You will receive your offer by letter from the Scottish Government and you may have the offer of additional support and apology.
