Panel appointed to consider redress for victims of historical abuse

John Swinney

The 20-panel members bring a broad range of experience and expertise from education, social work and the legal, health and charity sectors.

The appointments follow a recruitment process which included interviews with a panel of survivors.

The chair of Redress Scotland, Johnny Gwynne, former deputy chief constable of Police Scotland, was appointed earlier this year.

Welcoming the appointments, Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “For decades, some children in residential care were failed by those trusted to look after them. Scotland’s Redress Scheme is a national endeavour to acknowledge what happened, and provide recognition of the harm caused to children who were abused historically in care.

“While nothing can ever make up for what survivors experienced, the scheme offers an alternative to court action that is a faster, more survivor-focused route to redress.

“Redress Scotland panel members have an important role to play in the scheme by bringing independent, fair and consistent decision-making to all applications. Their work will help ensure we deliver a scheme that is robust and treats applicants with fairness, dignity and compassion. This is a strong pool of panel members with a breadth of knowledge and experience.”

Mr Gwynne said: “I would like to welcome all 20 panel members to Redress Scotland. Each brings a set of skills and expertise which will be invaluable as we work together to deliver a redress scheme that earns the trust of survivors.”