Scottish Redress Scheme –
Compensation for Survivors
of Abuse in Care
If you were abused as a child while in care in Scotland before December 2004, you may be entitled to compensation through the Scottish Redress Scheme.
The scheme was set up to acknowledge what happened, provide an official apology, and offer a financial payment to survivors and, in some cases, their families.
Aiker Legal is an SRA regulated law firm with experience supporting survivors of abuse. We can guide you through the process with care, confidentiality, and clear advice.
What is the Scottish Redress Scheme?
The Scottish Redress Scheme was introduced in 2021 as an alternative to going through the courts. It is designed to:
- Recognise the abuse suffered by children in care.
- Provide financial redress (compensation).
- Offer survivors dignity, support, and an official apology.
Who is eligible to apply?
You may be able to apply if you:
- Were abused while in care in Scotland before 1 December 2004.
- Are the next of kin of someone who was abused in care and has since passed away (in certain circumstances).
What types of abuse does the scheme cover?
The Scottish Redress Scheme covers:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Emotional or psychological abuse
- Neglect
What is a “relevant care setting”?
A relevant care setting means a place where children were looked after away from their family home, including:
- Children’s homes
- Residential schools
- Foster care
- Govt sponsored Kinship Care
- Young offenders institutions
- Other institutions or care environments where the state was responsible
How much compensation can you receive?
There are two types of payment:
- Fixed payment – £10,000 (a straightforward award for eligible applicants).
- Individually assessed payment – up to £100,000, depending on the severity and impact of the abuse.
To receive a payment, you must sign a waiver agreeing not to make a civil claim for the same abuse in the future.
Why legal advice is important
Applying to the scheme can be complex, and the waiver has lasting consequences. A specialist solicitor can:
- Confirm your eligibility.
- Advise whether a fixed or individually assessed payment is right for you.
- Help gather records and witness evidence.
- Explain the impact of signing the waiver.
- Support you throughout the process.
How Aiker Legal can help
At Aiker Legal we provide confidential, sensitive support to survivors. We will:
- Arrange for your statements to be transcribed.
- Assess your eligibility and explain your options in plain language.
- Prepare and submit your application to Redress Scotland.
- Trace and collect records and statements to strengthen your case.
- Represent you in communications with the scheme.
- Make sure you fully understand the settlement waiver before signing.
We are an SRA regulated law firm dedicated to protecting your rights.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply to the Scottish Redress Scheme?
Anyone who suffered abuse in a relevant care setting in Scotland before 1 December 2004, and in some cases, next of kin of deceased survivors. Some exclusions are made to those with certain criminal records.
What is the maximum compensation available?
Payments can range from £10,000 to £100,000 depending on whether you choose a fixed or individually assessed application.
What does the waiver mean?
Accepting redress means you agree not to make a civil claim for the same abuse. Always seek legal advice before signing.
Start your claim today
If you or a loved one experienced abuse in care in Scotland before 2004, you do not have to face the process alone.
Contact Aiker Legal for a free and confidential consultation. We will guide you through every step of the Scottish Redress Scheme and make sure your voice is heard.