Independent inquiry details confirmed

Published: 25th June 2021

Andrew Webster QC will lead an independent inquiry previously announced by the Chief Executive of Scottish Borders Council into the Council’s handling of concerns raised about a convicted teacher

Mr Webster has significant experience in senior legal roles in Scotland with a background in public and regulatory law.

He is a senior member of the Faculty of Advocates, a part-time Sheriff, and a Chairing Member of both the Pensions Appeal Tribunal for Scotland and the Police Appeals Tribunal.

He will shortly begin the process of contacting those who he believes can assist the inquiry. This will take place over the coming weeks.

Anyone who is not contacted as part of this process, but believes they may have any relevant contribution, can get in touch with the inquiry through Ledingham Chalmers Solicitors, who are providing an independent support function to the inquiry sbcinquiry@ledinghamchalmers.com

As previously stated, the safety and wellbeing of young people in the Scottish Borders is of the utmost importance. To ensure the inquiry is as thorough as possible Mr Webster will be given full access to all Council staff and relevant documentation.

Further information

Background information is available in a report that was approved by Scottish Borders Council on 17 June.

The inquiry will consider, but not be limited to, the following matters:

  • the adequacy of the Council’s investigation carried out in response to concerns raised about the individual. This should consider concerns raised by the original complainant, and by parents
  • the extent to which the carrying out of the said investigation adhered to Council policies
  • the adequacy of the policies in place concerning child safeguarding and accusations against staff
  • the extent to which any such policies were followed in investigating the concerns raised
  • the adequacy of coordination between relevant departments within the Council in dealing with the investigation into the concerns raised
  • the involvement of any other individuals in the investigation of the complaints, and whether this was appropriate and timely. This should include consideration of Parents, Staff and Officers of SBC, Elected Members, MSPs, and any others as deemed appropriate by the Investigator
  • any conflict of interest in respect of those involved in the investigation
  • the extent to which there was engagement with third party agencies such as the General Teaching Council and Police Scotland, and appropriateness of this engagement
  • what information was known to the Council and when this information came into its possession
  • the adequacy of communication with, and involvement of, the complainants, in respect to the investigation
  • the determination of the investigation, including the appropriateness of the outcomes and the following up of actions or recommendations
  • the time taken to conclude the investigation

The inquiry is expected to be completed by the end of September.