Child abuse inquiry to resume hearings in September

The announcement was made by Lady Smith, chair of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry (SCAI), today (Thursday, July 9).

It is hoped the hearings will take place at the inquiry’s hearing venue at Rosebery House, Edinburgh, subject to public health guidance.

Evidence is likely to be taken both from witnesses in person, as well as remotely via video link.

Other hearings postponed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic are being rescheduled.

The phase of evidence relating to the Scottish Government knowledge and response to abuse is planned for mid-November 2020.

A case study examining the abuse of children in boarding schools is expected to start in early 2021.

The inquiry is considering when it might be able to safely resume face-to-face meetings but in the meantime, has been using technology to take statements from certain applicants remotely.

The inquiry’s witness support team continues to operate the Talk to Us phone line and support applicants and other witnesses at this time.

The Inquiry’s ‘Talk to Us’ phone lines will operate Monday – Friday between 10am and 4pm until further notice.

Individuals can contact the inquiry’s witness support team by phone on 0800 0929 300, or by email at [email protected].

BSL users can contact the Inquiry through an online sign interpreter.

Updates will also be provided on the inquiry website here and via Twitter, @ScottishCAI.