LEAVING OUR CHILDHOOD HELL BEHIND

THEY were society’s most vulnerable – children who were abandoned, orphaned or neglected and taken into care.

But instead of being nurtured and protected, many youngsters were subjected to horrifying abuse.

In recent years, the truth has come out about suffering inflicted on some kids in care. More than 60 institutions are being investigated.

Many victims of childhood abuse have grown up with opportunities denied, from basic education to the safety and security that others take for granted.

Survivors of abuse in care can now access support from a £13.5million Future Pathways fund set up by the Scottish Government.

Hundreds have already come forward, but there could be hundreds more eligible for support. Anyone over 18 who was abused while living in care, which includes residential or foster care, boarding school – state or private – a long-term stay in hospital or time spent in a young offenders institution, can apply.

Future Pathways help people access counselling, education and assistance with record searches.

Flora Henderson, alliance manager at Future Pathways, said: “We never ask for personal information or evidence that abuse took place because talking about their experience can be a barrier. “It’s important that people don’t feel excluded or too embarrassed to come forward.” Registration is easy and can be done by phone, email or online. Here, we speak to three people who have been assisted by Future Pathways. ● Call Future Pathways on 0808 164 2005 or go online at www.futurepathways.co.uk

As care survivors trudge the long road to recovery, support from a £13.5m fund can be a godsend