Details

The purpose of the Inquiry is to investigate the abuse of children in care in Scotland up to 17 December 2014 and the extent to which institutions failed in their duty to protect children. The Inquiry is examining the long term effects of abuse on victims and their families, how far failures have been addressed by changes to practice, policy or legislation, and what further changes are needed.

The Process

Investigations are carried out by means of an “inquisitorial” process, where the Inquiry decides the matters they need to look into. Where necessary, case studies are carried out into particular institutions, which include public hearings and private sessions where witnesses give evidence.

Thus far (July 2023) there have been 112 investigaions (completed, in progress or announced), and 11 case studies have been completed.

Governing Legislation
Established under the Inquiries Act 2005.

Governing Authority
The Inquiry will report with recommendations to Scottish Ministers

Public Hearings
The work of the Inquiry includes public hearings, which take place as part of case studies after detailed investigations, research, analysis and preparation have been completed by Inquiry counsel and staff. The public hearings include the taking of oral evidence from individuals about their experiences as children in care and the reading of a selection of evidence from some of their written statements.

To July 2023, there had been 354 days of hearings.

Private Sessions
Applicants and other witnesses can tell members of the SCAI team about their experiences as children in care and any other relevant evidence at a private session.

Case Studies
Of the 11 case studies completed (as of July 2023), the findings of nine have been published. These studies have concerned the provision of residential care over the course of the 20th century by five religious institutions (Benedictines (no. 5), Christian Brothers (no. 4), Daughters of Charity (no. 1), Marist Brothers (no. 7), Sisters of Nazareth (no. 2)), and by Quarriers, Aberlour, and Barnardos (no. 3); a boarding school (Loretto School, no. 9); and child migration (no. 8); also the response of the Scottish Government between 2002 and 2014 to Petition PE535, and other key issues raised by adult survivors of childhood abuse experienced in care in Scotland (no. 6).

Research
The Research and Policy Team identifies, gathers and reviews information relating to the abuse of children in care and related topics in order for the Inquiry, both carrying out research within the Inquiry or commissioning experts to assist their work. Thus far 7 research reports have been published.

Roundtable Discussions
A roundtable of psychologists and socials worker was held in March 2022 to explore aspects of the psychology of those who abuse children with relevant experts. Its findings are available here.

Cost
£71,717,011 (to 30 June 2023)

Inquiry Panel

• Houston, Glenn
• Lamb, Michael