Catherine Dyer to chair child protection review

Part of the Scottish government’s Child Protection Improvement Programme, the announcement for the independent review comes following the conviction of a mother and her partner for the murder of her two-year-old son, Liam Fee.

National outcry erupted over why the social work department allowed his case to slip through the system and failed to act upon concerns for the safety and welfare of the boy.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney announced the appointment of Ms Dyer at a summit held in Perth.

Mr Swinney said: “An essential part of the child protection improvement programme is a review of policy, practice, services and structures so that we can identify strengths, achievements and priorities for change.

“We will look at child protection committees, initial case reviews, significant case reviews and the child protection register to ensure that they work together to create a holistic, coherent and responsive child protection system that optimises outcomes for children.

“I am pleased to announce today that this review will be independently chaired by Catherine Dyer, who brings a wealth of experience from her time as chief executive of the Crown Office & Procurator Fiscal Service. She will bring the expertise, experience and independence this sensitive task needs.”