WIREDGOV

More than 200 advance payments made.

More than 200 payments have been made to survivors of childhood abuse in care.

Eligible applicants have received £10,000 under the Scottish Government’s Advance Payment Scheme, which provides acknowledgement and recognition of the harm done to those who were abused in care in Scotland.

Since the scheme opened in April to make payments to those who are terminally ill or age 70 or over, the Scottish Government approved 202 applications, sent out more than 250 application packs and received 700 calls on a dedicated phone line set up to help survivors apply to the scheme.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney yesterday said:

“I am pleased that over 200 people have applied for an advance payment. We continue to do everything possible to help survivors and their families apply to the scheme by ensuring a simple application process. 

“This is part of a number of commitments to provide recognition of the harm done. That is why we will shortly consult on the detail of a statutory financial redress scheme so that legislation can be passed before the end of this Parliamentary term in March 2021. This is an important part of acknowledging what happened in the past to children in care in Scotland.”

Background

As part of the Advance Payment Scheme specially trained staff are available to offer support on the free help line 0808 169 9740, lines are open Monday – Thursday from 10am to 4pm.