Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry: Lawyer speaks out after Edinburgh abuse "brushed under the carpet"

As a child abuse specialist and Head of Personal Injury Scotland for Irwin Mitchell Scotland, I'm deeply moved by the straight-talking testimony given by retired social worker Pauline McKinnon regarding the abuse that occurred at Howdenhall and St Katherine’s secure units in Edinburgh. 

Her willingness to speak out about the horrific treatment of children in these facilities is commendable and highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in childcare institutions.

Shocking and saddening cases

Ms. McKinnon’s testimony to the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry has shed light on the physical, emotional, and verbal abuse that was “brushed under the carpet” for over a decade. Her detailed account of the 30 cases of abuse she identified between 2008 and 2019 is both shocking and saddening. 

It's clear that the toxic and dysfunctional culture within these units allowed such abuse to persist unchecked.

A step in the right direction

The recent closures of Howdenhall and St Katherine’s in 2023 are a step in the right direction, but they also raise important questions about accountability. There may be perpetrators who, despite the closures, have yet to face criminal charges for their actions. It is imperative that these individuals are brought to justice to ensure that such atrocities are not repeated and that survivors receive the justice they deserve.

I also want to commend the survivors who have come forward to provide evidence to the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry. Their bravery in sharing their painful experiences cannot be overstated. It is through their voices that we can hope to bring about meaningful change and prevent future abuse.

Supporting those affected

In conclusion, the testimony of Pauline McKinnon and the courage of the survivors are crucial in our ongoing fight against child abuse. We must continue to support and listen to those who have been affected and work tirelessly to ensure that all children are safe, nurtured, and protected.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting survivors of abuse at our dedicated abuse and criminal injuries section.