Probe launched into allegations of historic sexual abuse at Scottish Borders secondary school

A probe has been launched following historic claims of sexual abuse at a secondary school in the Scottish Borders.

Police Scotland has confirmed it is investigating incidents which took place between 1969 and 1980 at a school in Galashiels.

The school has not been named but it is believed to be Galashiels Academy.

Those who believe they have been a victim are urged to come forward “regardless of the passage of time”.

Detective inspector Jim McLauchlan of Police Scotland’s National Child Abuse Investigation Unit said: “We take all reports of sexual abuse extremely seriously and ask anyone who believe they may have been a victim to come forward, regardless of the passage of time.

“We know that those with information from this time period may no longer live in the area and we want to encourage everyone with knowledge of this type of crime to reach out.

“If you have any information that could help with our enquiries then please get in touch. Every report is thoroughly investigated, with sensitivity and professionalism, by specially trained liaison officers who will support victims.

“Tackling sexual crime is a priority and we work closely with partners and I am asking anyone who can assist with this investigation to contact us on 101.

“If anyone feels unable to contact Police Scotland direct, they can make an anonymous call to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Help is also available through other organisations such as Rape Crisis Scotland which can be contacted on 08088 01 03 02”.

A spokesperson from the Scottish Borders Council added: “Police Scotland are investigating reports of non-recent sexual abuse that allegedly took place at a secondary school in the Scottish Borders, between 1969 and 1980.

Scottish Borders Council are supporting Police Scotland with their investigations.

Anyone who can assist the police with this investigation should contact them on 101.