Ministers in Jersey have asked Verita to provide independent advice on the setting up of an inquiry into historical child abuse on the island.
Child abuse
Verita was asked to seek the views of interested parties about the purpose, manner and conduct of an inquiry; to propose terms of reference; to forecast likely costs; and to set out the practical implications of a decision to commission such an inquiry.
Managing partner Ed Marsden who led the work explains: "As with all key inquiries, particularly one as complex and emotive as this one, it's important to agree a clear purpose right from the outset. The terms of reference need to be appropriate, neither too narrow nor too broad, and the panel has to have the means to carry out the work that is being asked of it.
"Getting these basic steps right underpins the integrity of the entire inquiry process and its potential to ensure that lessons are learned."
Verita is experienced in providing independent professional advice to clients on how best to commission investigations that stand up to external scrutiny and are timely and cost effective.
For more information, please contact Ed Marsden on 020 7494 5670 or edmarsden@verita.net.