The Scottish Redress Scheme was established to provide both financial and non-financial redress to those who experienced abuse in care in Scotland before 1 December 2004. This initiative was created following years of persistent campaigning by survivors to get acknowledgement of the severe harm and long-lasting impact that these traumatic experiences have had on their lives.

The scheme offers a range of redress options. Financial compensation is a key component, providing survivors with monetary recognition of the suffering they endured. Additionally, the scheme includes non-financial redress, which can be equally important for many survivors. This non-financial redress encompasses an apology as well access to emotional support services.

The Scottish Redress Scheme is one of several potential routes to compensation. Other avenues may include a civil claim or other compensation schemes, depending on individual circumstances and preferences.

We're proud to partner with First Tier, a dedicated charity established to support survivors of childhood abuse. First Tier offers an invaluable service, providing essential resources and assistance to those who've experienced childhood abuse. Through this partnership, we aim to ensure that survivors receive the comprehensive support they need to move forward with their lives. Together, we are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by childhood abuse.

How do I apply for Redress and what are the different types of application?

There are two main types of Redress applications:

  • Fixed Rate Payment Applications
  • Individually Assessed Payment Applications.

Fixed Rate applications offer a lump sum of £10,000 whereas Individually Assessed Payment applications offer compensation between £20,000 and £100,000. Each type of application requires different levels of evidence.

Additionally, next of kin (spouses, civil partners, cohabitants, or children of deceased survivors) are also eligible to apply if the survivor hadn't already received a redress payment.

Why choose Irwin Mitchell Scotland?

Choosing Irwin Mitchell Scotland for your historic abuse claim means partnering with a team of experts dedicated to your case. Led by Kim Leslie, who is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a specialist in personal injury law, accredited as a Fellow of Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and Executive Director for Scotland of The Association of Child Abuse Lawyers our team brings extensive experience, tenacity, and compassion to these sensitive cases.

We recognise that every survivor’s journey is unique. That’s why we offer holistic advice, guiding you through alternative legal routes that may better suit your individual needs and priorities. Our compassionate approach ensures you receive the support and acknowledgment you deserve throughout the entire process.

We are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of those affected by historic abuse, helping you seek justice and move forward with confidence.

Specialist abuse solicitors
Offices across the UK
Compassionate and professional service
Partnerships with specialist trauma charities

Call us for a free initial consultation

0800 056 4110

Or we can call you back at a time of your choice

Phone lines are open 24/7, 365 days a year
Kim Leslie

More information on Redress Scotland

Frequently Asked Questions

What applications are considered priority applications?

There are two types of priority applications:

  • Priority 1 applications are for those with terminal illnesses
  • Priority 2 applications are for those aged over 68.

Redress Scotland will not prioritise applications outside of these two categories.

What are the different types of application?

There are two main types of Redress applications:

  • Fixed Rate Payment Applications
  • Individually Assessed Payment Applications

Fixed Rate applications offer a lump sum of £10,000, whereas Individually Assessed Payment applications offer compensation between £20,000 and £100,000. Each type of application requires different levels of evidence.

Next of kin (spouses, civil partners, cohabitants, or children of deceased survivors) are also eligible to apply if the survivor hadn't already received a redress payment.

What are the timescales for a Redress Scotland application?

For non-priority applications (please see below for more information on priority and non-priority applications), we have found that the whole process is likely to take between 12 and 18 months. We can't give any guarantees on timescales but think it's helpful to give an indication.

Redress Scotland aim to have all priority applications to come before a panel within six weeks of receipt from your Scottish Government caseworker.

The redress scheme aims to give a quicker and less stressful way to get compensation and support compared to pursuing compensation from the organisation responsible. In practice, this isn't always the case. Pursuing compensation directly from the organisation doesn't necessarily mean that you'll have to give your evidence in court. Most cases can be settled through negotiation before the hearing on evidence.

What Our Clients Say

We truly value and appreciate the feedback we receive from our clients, as we look to improve the services we offer on an ongoing basis.

Read More Feedback
5
Efficient and courteous

Efficient and courteous , did exactly as we requested and provided good advice.

Derek Millichip
5
Gillian Coverly was outstanding in her …

Gillian Coverly was outstanding in her professionalism, in her knowledge but also in the manner in which she worked with our family as a time of great shock and distress, even out of hours when we needed help. Her sensitivity and empathetic nature helped us worked though what was a time pressing ...

Jackie Freeborn
5
Top Solicitors

Four and a half year's ago was the most darkest time of my life after my wife died while in the care of the Norfolk & Suffolk Mental Health team. After contacting Irwin Mitchell and told them of my story I was passed on to a solicitor Mr Tom Riis-Bristow who listened to what I had to say, took my ...

MARK A DAVIES

Our Offices

Our offices are located in major cities throughout the UK and have excellent transport links.