Scottish Government announces public inquiry into group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation in Scotland
The Scottish Government has announced (25 February) the establishment of a statutory public inquiry into group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSAE) in Scotland. The announcement was made by the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Jenny Gilruth, in a statement to the Scottish Parliament, alongside confirmation that Professor Alexis Jay CBE has agreed to chair the inquiry.
The inquiry will focus on the prevalence of group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation in Scotland now and in the recent past. It will draw on survivors’ experiences; the findings of the independent National Review of responses to group-based child sexual abuse and exploitation in Scotland, led jointly by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Education, His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Healthcare Improvement Scotland and the Care Inspectorate; and work being carried out by Police Scotland to review previous cases of group-related child sexual abuse and exploitation in Scotland.
The new inquiry will be distinct from the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry (SCAI), chaired by Lady Smith. The Scottish Government has said it will ensure the new inquiry does not duplicate the work of the SCAI.
The detailed terms of reference for the new inquiry will be developed with input from Professor Jay.
In addition to the public inquiry, the Scottish Government has announced its intention to establish a Scottish Truth Project. The project will operate alongside, but separately from, the statutory inquiry, offering a supportive way for victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation to share their experiences safely, shape future improvements and access appropriate support.
John O’Brien, who led the Truth Project which formed part of the Independent Inquiry on Child Sexual Abuse in England and Wales, will lead the Scottish Truth Project.