“Essential rights protections must be progressed as swiftly as possible”

Nicola Killean, Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland, said: “I’m extremely concerned about the findings of this comprehensive report by the Mental Welfare Commission into the care of children at Skye House, which reflects similar issues raised in a BBC documentary over a year ago.  

“The report includes significant concerns relating to the way children are treated, with some reporting feeling bullied by staff, potential unlawful use of restraint on children, and insufficient recording and monitoring of such physical interventions.    

“My office used its legal powers last year to secure commitments from the Scottish Government to put in place human rights-based guidance, and to mandate recording, reporting and monitoring around the use of restraint in mental health settings.  

“Today’s report only reinforces the need for these essential rights protections to be progressed as swiftly as possible.  

“Children have the right to protection from all forms of abuse or harm, in all aspects of their lives. Children have the right to feel safe. They have a right to dignity, to bodily integrity, and to be protected from cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. They also have the right to the best possible physical and mental health.  

“My office continues to engage in active discussions with the Scottish Government and the Mental Welfare Commission in order to ensure children’s human rights are protected.”