Child abuse time-bar scrapped

A long-standing time-bar which stopped survivors of childhood abuse in Scotland being able to pursue civil damages claims against their alleged abusers after three years has been abolished.

The introduction of new legislation means victims no longer face a barrier which requires personal injury actions to be made within a certain period after the incident.

Minister for community safety and legal affairs Annabelle Ewing said: “This legal milestonewouldnothavehappened but for the courage of many adult survivors whose persistence and dedication have shone a light on the dark realities of child abuse.

“Through their brave testimonies they have made clear the great hurt and damage caused by the very individuals and institutions who should have cared for them. This removal of the civil time-bar underlines the government’s commitment to ensuring Scotland is beginning to make amends for the grave failings of the past.”