Proud to support the launch of the first Bairns’ Hoose
SCRA was delighted to attend the launch of the first ever Bairns’ Hoose on Tuesday.
Scotland’s first “Bairns Hoose” aims to provide a safe space for children and young people who have been the victims of violent and sexual crimes.
It will allow victims and witnesses to give pre-recorded evidence, without needing to go to a police station or court.
The trial scheme is based on the Barnahus model first used in Iceland.
Locality Reporter Manager Julie Paterson from our North Strathclyde Locality where the first house is based, attending the official launch. She said afterwards: “The Bairns’ Hoose celebration was a lovely event at the offices of the People’s Postcode Lottery celebrating the opening of the first Bairns’ Hoose in Scotland after a four year journey from concept to reality.
“We saw a video of the completed house which looks bright, warm, homely and safe. The first Scottish Child Interview Model interviews will likely take place in the next two or three weeks, once the interview team becomes familiar with the facilities and technology. The feedback from children and families who have visited the property has been extremely positive.
“The completed building is a huge step towards improving the experience of child victims and witnesses in the child protection and justice systems allowing Joint investigative interviews, some medical examinations, remote participation in court proceedings and recovery supports to take place under the same roof. However, there is still much work for partners to undertake to remove the barriers in process and legislation which continue to cause unacceptable delay and still require some children and young people to attend court.”
You can read more about the opening on the Children 1st website.
There is also more general information on the Bairns’ Hoose website.