Sexual abuse can happen anywhere and in many settings, including sports. Most of us at some point in our lives have enjoyed sport at some level. This may include attending physical education classes at school or local clubs/organisations.
By way of a postscript to a blog published in 14th October 2014 (republished below) this firm finally represented 5 of David Lowe’s victims in civil compensation claims, which were ultimately successful against the Westminster Cathedral Choir School, a London Catholic preparatory school for gifted choristers.
Survivors of abuse often seek justice in a variety of ways. Justice can take the form of financial compensation. While no route to obtaining compensation is perfect, in some cases, applying to a bespoke compensation scheme can have its advantages.
Figures released in early 2021 showed that in England and Wales in the 12 month period to September 2021, only around 820 (1.3%) of the record 63,136 reported rape offence logged by the police resulted in a suspect being charged. Victims of abuse can suffer lasting trauma, and too often their experience of the criminal justice system adds to their suffering.
For decades a significant number of boys have joined the Boys’ Brigade hoping for the opportunity to experience camping holidays and residential activities and learn new skills and make friends. For most of them their experience and memories are happy ones. Sadly, there are some for whom their memories of the Boys Brigade are marred by experiences they would rather forget.
Sexual abuse and sexual violence is a deeply damaging reality. Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week is a national event aimed at building awareness and campaigning against sexual violence and abuse.
Channel 5’s new drama ‘The Teacher’ shines a light on sexual abuse in the teacher/pupil context and makes for deeply uncomfortable viewing.
For many, the reminiscence of school is one full of fond, laughter-full and happy memories. For others sadly it is the opposite; a place where they should have been able to safely develop academically, emotionally and socially, and regrettably did not.
Childhood sexual abuse in a religious setting, perpetrated by a representative of the religion, is a profound breach of trust.
No amount of money can ever compensate for the lifelong damaging effects of childhood sexual abuse. Abuse in the context of religion is arguably more damaging as it often has the additional layer of spiritual abuse.
Editor's note: Since we reported successful compensation claims against the Cistercian Order in 2017 in respect of six survivors of abuse by Father Kotik Thaddeus, a monk on Caldey Island, more survivors have come forward.
It is reported that over 20 survivors have now disclosed abuse suffered at the hands of monks. Claims of non recent abuse involving priests and religious figures are being re-investigated by police. A public inquiry is being called for, 5000 signatures having been obtained on a petition.
It is hoped that a public inquiry will shine a much needed spotlight on the child exploitation that occurred on Caldey Island, to learn lessons from the past and prevent future failings. As important it is vital that survivors are heard and can find justice and much needed resolution.
We have previously looked at the mechanics of the Criminal Injuries Scheme. Recently we at Emmott Snell Solicitors have been reminded of its importance to victims who have no other form of redress open to them. It is hoped that the case study below will encourage those who are considering making applications to the CICA to go forward with this.
