Humza Yousaf

Mr Yousaf also said his party will adopt a form of the “Barnahus” model used in some Scandinavian countries’ justice systems. In Scotland, it will be called “Bairns’ Hoose”.

Barnhaus is a child-centred response for children who are victims or witnesses of serious crime and abuse.

Mr Yousaf said: “We know how difficult involvement in the justice system can be for anyone, but it can be particularly difficult for children. In everything we do we must respect the rights and wellbeing of children and young people.

“At present, young people caught up in the justice system may have to go through multiple different services in multiple locations. That simply isn’t right.”

He added: “Scandinavian countries have introduced a model that provides a welcoming and safe environment for children who have to engage in the justice system. All the care and support a child and their family needs is delivered under one roof - at a place called the Barnahus - the children’s house.

“In Scotland we will introduce the ‘Bairns Hoose’. These centres will operate on the principle that the needs of children in criminal cases are totally different from adults in the same situation. The child will be the centre of their work. And we will ensure that every child victim or witness will have access to a Bairn’s Hoose by 2025.”