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ALLIANCE support calls for in-depth inquiry in relation to Linda McCall

  • Area of Work: The ALLIANCE
  • Type: News Item
  • Published: 9th June 2021
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An independent inquiry into events is welcome, but the remit must extend beyond simply what happened within Scottish Borders Council.

The ALLIANCE has joined a number of other organisations in calling for an in-depth inquiry to support learning from behaviours, experiences, actions and considerations prior to the conviction of Linda McCall. McCall was a teacher in the Scottish Borders when she subjected disabled children in her care to violent abuse. (This link will take you away from our website. Please be aware it includes information that may be distressing.)

Following McCall’s conviction, Scottish Borders Council have committed to an independent enquiry into events. The ALLIANCE have joined for Scotland’s Disabled Children, the Disabled Children Child Protection Network and the chair of the Scottish Government Disabled Children and Young People advisory group in writing to the Council to urge that this enquiry have the broadest possible remit.

In addition to the actions of Scottish Borders Council, other agencies should be involved to maximise the national learning. These should include NHS Borders, Police Scotland, the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, and involved third sector services. The inquiry should investigate what cultural influences may have impacted on attitudes, behaviours and actions, as well as issues such as misplaced personal and institutional loyalty.

You can read the full letter to the Chief Executive of Scottish Borders Council here.

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