Scots abuse case triggers action

13 May 04
Scottish ministers have promised swift action following the publication of two damning reports criticising serious social care, health and policing failures in the Borders region.

14 May 2004

Scottish ministers have promised swift action following the publication of two damning reports criticising serious social care, health and policing failures in the Borders region.

Two separate reports by the Social Work Services Inspectorate and the Mental Welfare Commission concluded that failures at every level allowed four people with learning difficulties to be neglected and physically and sexually abused over 30 years.

Education Minister Peter Peacock said it was the most appalling case he had come across. 'Much of the abuse, neglect and exploitation could have been avoided if it had not been for these failures,' he said.

'Time and again, concerns were raised with those who should have been protecting them. Each one should have triggered decisive action but none did.'

Scottish Borders Council, NHS Borders and Lothian and Borders Police have given ministers assurances that far-reaching improvements will be put in place.

Peacock added that there was a need to take a wider look at the standard of social services in Scotland to ensure that vulnerable citizens were not let down again.

PFmay2004

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