Inquiry into historic child abuse 'must' look at change in reporting laws, Clyde News hears

Clyde News is hearing Scotland is trailing behind the rest of the world when it comes to the reporting of child sexual abuse.

The claim comes from pressure group Mandate Now who are campaigning for the introduction of 'Mandatory Reporting' of suspected child abuse by those who work in regulated activities, like football teams and dance clubs.

As it stands just now, youth organisations are not legally required to report any incidents they are aware of to authorities.

It comes at Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson backs calls for public inquiry into abuse at Celtic Boys Club.

There has been several convictions of former scouts and coaches this year including Jim Torbett, Frank Cairney and James McCafferty who have all been jailed.

Tom Perry from campaign group Mandate Now says any review into historic cases must investigate whether mandatory reporting could have prevented it and a change in legislation is required.

He said: "In Scotland, England and Wales we live in a discretionary reporting jurisdiction, so you should report, it's a professional expectation - but, it is not mandatory and that is what we are seeking to have introduced.

"We are behind all four continents. In Europe, 86% of countries have mandatory reporting legislation. In the UK, we do not - with the exception of Northern Ireland.

"It stems from social work practice and the development of family law. It's being misapplied to these types of youth organisations.

"I would suggest, as has been found in other countries that have mandatory reporting, it would have brought incidents of abuse to the attention of authorities much earlier and prevented them. It is that simple."

The Scottish Government launched a review into the introduction of mandatory reporting which concluded in October 2018. It said: "After careful consideration of the findings from the U.K. Government report and with reflection of these findings within the Scottish context, the Scottish Government considers that the case for introducing mandatory reporting is not sufficiently compelling at this time.

"The Scottish Government remains committed to the safety of children and young people.

"Officials will continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the Scottish child protection system working closely with stakeholders and any relevant U.K. Government officials. We will consider any new or emerging evidence that suggests that mandatory reporting would improve the outcomes for children and young people in Scotland and will act accordingly.

"As things currently stand, the Scottish Government will not introduce legislation making mandatory reporting a legal requirement"

Celtic FC said: "These are very sensitive issues, particularly for those who suffered abuse. When the allegations were published in the media in 2016, Celtic Football Club encouraged any individuals involved to report all information to the police so that these matters could be investigated fully and the Club continues to encourage any victim of abuse to report these matters to the police.

"Celtic Football Club takes all of its responsibilities seriously, stands by its responsibilities and will continue to do so.

"The abuse of children has affected many areas of society, including football clubs, sports clubs, youth organisations, educational institutions and religious bodies across Britain.

"Celtic Football Club strongly believes that children and young people involved in football have the right to protection from all forms of harm and abuse and is committed to ensuring this and to promoting their wellbeing through continued cooperation with our children and young people, parents and carers and the relevant authorities.

"Celtic Football Club was the first club in Scotland to appoint a safeguarding officer, responsible for developing our policies for the protection of young people, and monitoring and reviewing our procedures to ensure they continue to reflect best practice."