Groundbreaking new laws
New legislation to financial compensate survivors of historic abuse in Scotland has been praised by campaigners.
The passing of the Redress for Survivors (Historical Child Abuse in Care) (Scotland) Act by the Scottish Parliament this week creates a new independent body, Redress Scotland, to administer a scheme making financial payments to survivors of historical child abuse in care.
It will also provide non-financial support for survivors, such as emotional, psychological or practical help.
The Scottish Human Rights Commission welcomed the move.
Judith Robertson, chair of the commission, said: “Child abuse is a human rights violation, and anyone who has been subjected to such abuse has a right to an effective remedy including prompt reparation for harm suffered.
“This legislation is a significant step forward in ensuring that all survivors of historical child abuse in care in Scotland are afforded that right.
“The commission has been working with survivors and others since 2008 to promote effective access to justice and remedies for survivors of historical child abuse to ensure Scotland meets its obligations in this area. The result of this work was the Action Plan on Justice for Victims of Historic Abuse of Children in Care.
“Significant progress has been made towards meeting the outcomes of the action plan. This legislation represents another important milestone as it provides the financial redress that survivors have long advocated for.
“The importance of the continued and meaningful participation of survivors in securing action and progress in this area cannot be overstated.
“The commission looks forward to continuing to work with survivors, the Scottish Government and other stakeholders to support the further design and implementation of the redress scheme.”
