Redress Scotland, the new body responsible for making decisions about applications to Scotland’s redress scheme, is up and running as of December 2021. Survivors of historic abuse in care can now apply for redress to the Scottish Government, with Redress Scotland – a fully independent organisation – assessing and deciding the outcome of each case.
Headed by Chair Johnny Gwynne and Chief Executive Joanna McCreadie, Redress Scotland will operate a panel system, with members drawn from a wide range of backgrounds including the justice system, social work, child safeguarding and clinical psychology. Founded on values of respect, dignity and compassion, Redress Scotland was established following widespread consultation with survivors and support groups.
Addressing MSPs in Parliament, Deputy First Minister John Swinney has said that “some children in residential care in Scotland were failed by those entrusted to look after them, often with catastrophic results. Scotland is taking steps to face up to those failings by establishing this financial redress scheme for survivors.”
Redress Scotland is providing information for applicants through a new website at www.redress.scot. The site also provides links to groups providing emotional support and practical help to survivors. Redress Scotland will continue to develop the website over the coming months.