Edinburgh council now have a full list of names of those involved in the ‘old boy’s network’ that protected abuser Sean Bell.
The former social work manager was due to stand trial on sexual offences charges, but Police Scotland’s criminal investigation was brought to a close following Mr Bell’s death earlier this year.
An Independent Inquiry Report arising out of allegations concerning the conduct of the late Sean Bell recommended that members of an ‘old boys’ network’ blamed for protecting former senior social worker Sean Bell be identified.
Now, a report prepared for the council ahead of the next meeting of the inquiry on November 25 says that the council now have the full list of names.
The council say they will now decide on what disciplinary measures to take on the accused parties.
A spokesperson said: “A list of those individuals who were alleged to have been part of an “old boys’ network” within the Children and Families department has been received from Pinsent Masons.
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"An assessment is currently ongoing as to how best to conduct a proportionate review of disciplinary or complaint matters handled by these individuals. A recommendation will be brought back to Council for approval.”
The independent inquiry, chaired by Susanne Tanner QC, has identified certain failings and missed opportunities on the part of Edinburgh council to address the unacceptable conduct of the late Sean Bell.
The report found that Edinburgh council’s sexual abuse policy must now be revised to include situations with employees that arise outside the workplace and or outwith work hours.
They also say the the council should consider the implementation of an independent investigation unit of appropriately experienced and properly trained investigators, to investigate all allegations in relation to employees of a sexual nature, domestic abuse, physical violence, harassment or stalking.
The report says that the council should hire independent investigators to complete this work, or create an internal team with the sole remit of carrying out such investigations.
And they also advised that a compensation scheme should be set up, without admission of liability, to compensate those who have been abused by Sean Bell.
The report ends by saying that they understand the report is distressing for many people but they hope it might “address concerns going forward.
A spokesperson said: “The report identifies that Mr Bell had a seriously detrimental impact on those survivors and the wider staff cohort in some of his interactions. This was, and is, not acceptable.
“The council acknowledges that the need for, and the outcome of, this report will come as a shock to, and be distressing for, many employees and citizens and the Council hopes that implementation of the Inquiry’s report recommendations will address the concerns identified going forward.”
