Former Fife residential school to be investigated as part of abuse enquiry

A former East Neuk residential school is being investigated as part of the ongoing Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry.
Lady Smith is leading the Scottish Child Abuse InquiryLady Smith is leading the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry
Lady Smith is leading the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry

Ovenstone Residential School in Pittenweem is one of 17 institutions which are being investigated, on top of the 69 already identified.

Overstone was a Fife Council establishment.

People who might have relevant information about the institution are being urged to come forward by Lady Smith, chair of the inquiry.

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She said: “It does not matter whether you have already made a report to the police or to anyone else and it does not matter whether or not you have been involved in any other investigation. You can still talk to us and we want to hear from you.”

“I am well aware that it can be difficult and very emotional to talk about experiences in care and I want to take this opportunity to give an assurance that we have a dedicated witness support team here who will help and support anyone providing evidence to us. They will do so throughout the process.”

This announcement follows the news that St Ninian’s in Falkland is also to be investigated as part of phase four of the inquiry, which will look into establishments run by male religious orders.

People wishing to contact the inquiry can do so by calling 0800 0929 300 or emailing [email protected].

Gordon Wardrope, education manager with Fife Council, said: “We’re aware of the investigation into the former Ovenstone Residential School, and will assist the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry.”