Inquiry recommends redress scheme to aid survivors of sexual abuse at religious schools
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An inquiry into allegations of historical sexual abuse at religious-run day and boarding schools has recommended a redress scheme for survivors.
The redress scheme, which it says should be contributed to by the relevant religious orders, is just one of a number of recommendations set out in the Scoping Inquiry report that was published on Tuesday.
The scheme and a statutory inquiry were two key concerns raised by survivors who were involved in the Survivor Engagement process.
It was determined that a Commission of Investigation would be the preferable option for the inquiry as it is less adversarial than a tribunal and would be less likely to risk retraumatising the survivors.
For those who cannot, or do not wish to give evidence before the Commission, it is recommended they are given the opportunity to recount their experiences on a confidential basis as part of a Survivor Engagement Programme.
This would have a broader remit and would allow the families of those who have died to have their voices heard. A report would be issued identifying broader themes, systemic concerns for the consideration of the Commission.
The programme will receive oral and written accounts rather than hold formal hearings and will not have the power to compel any person's attendance.
It is recommended that consideration be given to extending the Terms of Reference to all schools. However, such consideration should not delay the setting up of the Commission.
There should be a survivor-led approach throughout the process including support for survivors both at key stages and in the aftermath while it is recommended that members of the Commission, staff, and legal teams undergo appropriate training to understand trauma associated with sexual crimes.
The inquiry stated there is reasonable cause to suggest that further allegations of historical sexual abuse will emerge following the publication of Tuesday's report, however predicting the scale would be difficult.
"Given the likely scale of allegations, the Commission may need to use a sampling approach or consider sitting in divisions in order to complete its work in a timely fashion," it recommended.
The Commission is to notify the Minister for Education at the conclusion of any part of its investigation and will endeavour to keep all stakeholders informed of the work and progress at reasonable intervals.
A report will be prepared for the minister at the conclusion of the Commission's investigation and/or within five years of its establishment.
It will have the opportunity to make recommendations on any aspect of the current child protection regime in schools as it sees fit.
The inquiry said that careful and in-depth consideration was given to all of the recommendations made by survivors and while not every suggestion could be included, every effort was made to accurately reflect the overarching priorities of the survivors.