Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry – interim findings published
On 17 December 2014, then Cabinet Secretary for Education, Angela Constance, announced that the Scottish Government intended to hold a public inquiry into historical institutional child abuse. Today, findings have been released by Judge Lady Smith leading the Inquiry: Case Study no.3 – The provision of residential care for children in Scotland by Quarriers, Aberlour Child Care Trust, and Barnardo’s between 1921 and 1991.
Aberlour’s Chief Executive SallyAnn Kelly said:
“We welcome today’s interim findings from Lady Smith and wish to again reiterate our unreserved apology to those who suffered abuse while in the care of Aberlour. We recognise the value and importance of this Inquiry and have co-operated fully throughout in the hope that in doing so, it will bring some degree of closure to those who have never been afforded the opportunity to tell their story.
Undoubtedly the Report is difficult to read in many places and includes harrowing testimonies from people who suffered great harm as children. We would like to acknowledge the strength and courage of all of those who were able to come forward.
Aberlour is committed to ensuring that we continue to learn lessons from our past and improve our support to children and their families. Lady Smith rightly points out that hearing the voices of children is key to ensuring that we offer the safest care we can. Today we feel that we have an organisation where genuine love for children and a child-centred approach is at the heart of Aberlour.
We will continue to digest the findings of the report, as will the whole child care sector, and are committed to doing all we can to ensure that children can live in safety and without fear.
We would repeat our deep gratitude to those who have spoken to the Inquiry and would encourage any other person to come forward and seek assistance directly from Aberlour or through the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry. If you would like to get in touch please contact us.