Abuse Survivors Blog

The concept of modus operandi in the context of sexual assault cases refers to a perpetrator’s behaviours prior to, during, and following sexual abuse.

A new school term and academic year is a timely reminder of the ongoing need to be vigilant on safeguarding matters.

Media coverage of safeguarding failures in schools are salutary reminders of what can go wrong when a blind eye is turned, or when policies and procedures are not complied with. 

One of Emmott Snell’s clients (hereafter referred to in this article as Mr M, to protect his identity) has successfully obtained an out-of-court settlement after bringing a civil compensation claim against a parish in the Oxford Diocese for sexual abuse he suffered whilst he was a chorister in a church choir. 

It is always heartening when any institution chooses to initiate formal scrutiny when something has gone badly wrong. In the Church of England, the House of Bishop’s guidance states that once matters relate to a safeguarding concern or allegation against a church officer have been completed, lessons should be identified and learnt from the case.

Tracey Emmott's note: Subsequent to publishing the blog below on 26^th September 2022, the Jesus Army Fellowship Trust launched its compensation scheme for survivors.

An exclusive public school on the Isle of Wight may not be immediately associated with dark tales of abuse. However, in 2021, Bembridge School became the focus of ‘Operation Seaside’, an investigation by Hampshire Police, following a surge of allegations by former pupils.

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.

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.