Scotland have recently introduced a new redress scheme for survivors of historical abuse in Scotland.

The Redress for Survivors (Historical Child Abuse in Care) (Scotland) Bill passed by a vote of 118 for, 0 against and 0 abstentions and became law on 23 April 2021.

It has been introduced to make financial awards to survivors of historic child abuse in care in Scotland. In some circumstances, where the survivor has died, these can be paid to their partner or children. A new independent public body, ‘Redress Scotland’ will be formed to assess applications and make decisions about payments.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said “This Bill is for survivors. Their courage, determination and perseverance has made a difference and will ensure others never have to experience the horrors they went through.”

The scheme replaces an interim scheme called the ‘advance payment scheme’ which came into force on 25th April 2019. This older scheme gave £10,000 to people who suffered historical abuse and were terminally ill or aged 68 & over.

The new redress scheme, following The Redress for Survivors (Historical Child Abuse in Care) (Scotland) Bill has much wider eligibility grounds than the older ‘advance payment scheme’. Under the new scheme, survivors will be able to apply for a fixed rate redress payment of £10,000, or an individually assessed redress payment (set at £20,000, £40,000, £60,000, £80,000 or £100,000) which will involve a more detailed examination of their experience. There is also no requirement that they be either terminally ill or aged 68 & over. The new Redress scheme also aims to provide non-financial redress, including an acknowledgment, apology and support.

Applications under the scheme plan to be open as soon as possible and before the end of 2021.

Though we at Farleys understand that financial compensation can never undo the wrongs that have happened to such survivors, it can be an important part of bringing closure.

If you, or someone you know has been affected by historical child abuse in care, we are here to help. Call our abuse line on 0330 134 6430 to speak to a member of our dedicated team who will deal with your enquiry with the utmost confidentiality and integrity. You can also contact us by email or through the online chat below, if you’d prefer.