The Case for Bairns Hoose

Olivia Lind Haldorsson, Senior Adviser and Head of the CBSS Children at Risk Unit

It is a real pleasure to support the publication of ‘Delivering the Vision of Bairns Hoose in Scotland: The Practical Guide'. I have the immense privilege of being a travel companion to a number of countries on their journeys towards Barnahus because they are convinced to do what it takes to promote and fulfil the rights of children who have been exposed to violence, as a victim or witness.  

We ask a lot of these children. No matter the justice outcome, they should always come out of the process in a better place than where they began their journey. Yet, I so often come across testimonies of children who regret that the violence they experienced was reported, due to the trauma and delays they have suffered during the criminal investigation and judicial process. Children, who had to overcome substantial barriers to disclose what happened to them in the first place. 

Today, we all agree that interagency collaboration and child centred protection, justice and care is best practice. But we also recognise that it is not without challenges! It demands commitment and investment from political leaders and agencies involved. It needs to be anchored firmly in a supportive civil society and in our communities. There must be solid building blocks in place for a well-functioning organisation that enables agencies to work together. And, the cooperation must be set up in a way that places children’s rights, needs and interests at the centre.