If you have been abused by a family member or friend, the only options open to you may be to pursue a claim directly against your abuser, as opposed to an organisation or establishment.
Jacqui Morton
Recent Posts
We have recently been instructed by a victim of a former music teacher, Paul Johnson who was sexually assaulted by him over a period of many years.
A significant number of people suffer injuries in public places such as shops, restaurants, schools and parks. Many of these accidents are as a result of negligence or a breach of duty of care on the part of those who own and or control the premises and could easily be avoided.
Four of Emmott Snell Solicitor’s clients (referred to in this article as ABE, AJC, ASI and ADJ to protect their identities) have successfully obtained out of court settlements after bringing compensation claims against Heath Mount School for sexual assaults they suffered whilst pupils at the school. Each was groomed and suffered sexual abuse at the hands of Michael Curtis, a science teacher. They were all young children aged 7 to 8 at the time.
A significant number of our elderly and most vulnerable members of society live in care homes (for a variety of reasons). Those of us who have relatives who are being looked after in these homes are entitled to expect them to be safe and well cared for. Whilst most do, sadly there are some whose care is below the required standard leaving its residents open to harm, abuse and injury.
The prevalence of sexual abuse in music settings is not insignificant. Whether it be in one to one instrument or singing lessons, or in the context of choirs, churches, theatre schools, or music colleges.
The intensity of the musical endeavour involving regular physical contact in the form of regular practices, working in close proximity to others, and a common goal provides ample opportunity for grooming.
The Covid-19 health crisis and the lockdown that has proceeded are providing many with the time and opportunity to reflect on their present and past life.
There can be no doubt that being bitten by a dog is a traumatic and frightening experience that can cause debilitating psychological and physical injuries. If you have been bitten/attacked by a dog and suffered injury then you may be able to make a claim for compensation. This compensation could cover any lost earnings if you’ve had time off work, the cost of any treatment as well as for the injury itself.
We have recently been contacted by a victim of a former Boys’ Brigade leader William Bissett who was sexually assaulted by him whilst he was a member of the Boys’ Brigade.
Many victims of sexual abuse live in silence and fear. It is heartening that more victims of sexual abuse are speaking out. This is thought to be as a result of the public inquiries and reporting of high-profile cases in the media. In 2014 the Government set up the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (“IICSA”) to look at how institutions have handled their duty of care to protect children. The inquiry set up the Truth Project which has heard from thousands of victims of sexual abuse.
