Abuse Survivors Blog

It is a widely held view that extramural activities supplement a child’s education and development. Sporting activities in particular are known to be immensely beneficial to a child’s physical and mental wellbeing, and self-confidence.

The consequences of image-based sexual abuse can be catastrophic, causing deep anguish and distress, social isolation, self-blame, shame, and despair.

It can have a major impact on a victim’s employment, significant relationships, and mental health.

We attended the sentencing hearing yesterday (Wednesday 26th March 2025) of Northamptonshire school teacher Robert Gould, who was found to have committed 29 sexual offences against boys in the 1970s and 1980s, some of whom we represent in civil compensation claims. Gould received a lengthy sentence of 26 years.

We are proud to be representing the two gentleman who were courageous enough to first report their abuser house parent, Clive Niblett, to Surrey police, in their pursuit of justice and financial restitution.

We represented six victims of sexual abuse by monk Father Thaddeus in civil compensation claims which finally resolved in 2017.

This month, we proudly celebrate 15 years of advocating for survivors of sexual abuse. As a niche firm dedicated to representing survivors of sexual abuse, over the years we have represented hundreds of survivors seeking restitution. It has been an honour and a privilege to stand alongside our clients, helping them seek accountability and financial redress for the significant losses suffered.

The recent media coverage in relation to allegations against Mohamed El-Fayed are shocking on multiple counts: the extent of his alleged sexual predation, the apparent culture of fear protecting him, and the failed attempts by heroic survivors to bring him to justice through the criminal process. Following his death last year, an avenue open to survivors may be to pursue his substantial estate for compensation.

Two former staff of St Paul’s Cathedral School have been convicted of sexual offences against former choristers in the 1980’s – Anthony Reece in 2002 and 2008,  and Stephen Douglas Hogg in 2009. In 2004 a senior adult choir member of St Paul’s Cathedral Mark Peterson, was also convicted of abusing St Paul’s choristers.

On the 23 May 2023, the body of Melvyn Ramsden (AKA Michel Rameau) was found in Cluis, France, after he had been reported missing for three months. This was confirmed by Cambridgeshire Police.