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.
In recent years, several compensation redress schemes have been established to compensate individuals who have suffered sexual abuse in specific institutions. Notable examples include St James and St Vedast Redress Scheme, The Manchester City Football Club Redress Scheme, Scotland’s
Redress Scheme, The Historic Abuse Redress Scheme (States of Jersey) and the Jesus Fellowship Redress Scheme.
Sexual assaults in a medical setting are a grave violation of trust and professional ethics. Patients place immense trust in healthcare professionals, expecting them to provide care and treatment with the utmost respect and integrity. Unfortunately, there are instances where this trust is breached, leading to devastating consequences for the victims. It is also not uncommon for sexual assaults to be committed by other patients within a medical setting.
In light of the recent conviction of ex-teacher Rebecca Joynes for sex offences against two school boys, it seems an apt time to re-publish our blog discussing the prevalence of female predators (originally published in January 2022).
Our paralegal, Megan Hickey, has competed in national competitions as a cheerleader and is familiar with trust placed in coaches. Cheerleading is a contact sport that requires an immense amount of physical touch in order to carry parts of the routines, especially the stunting sequences. Responsible coaches are essential in this dangerous sport, not just due to its physical nature but also due to the trust involved.
Christmas and New Year is often a time when we reflect on the past and make decisions for our future. For most of this, this is a happy time, and we resolve to make lifestyle changes and make plans for the future. For victims of sexual abuse, this time of the year can be poignant and bring back memories of times that they would rather forget.
Editor's note: On 10th July 2023, we published a blog urging victims of George Holden (deceased) to come forward as they may be entitled to make a claim on his estate. The court has recently extended the time for victims to come forward. However, this will shortly end. If you were harmed or sexually abused as a child by George Holden and are considering making a civil compensation claim please contact Emmott Snell Solicitors who will be pleased to discuss this further with you.
Jeremy Indika contacted Emmott Snell seeking justice for the sexual abuse he had suffered at the hands of his childminder whilst he was a child. We advised him on an application to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.
Whilst by no means straightforward, it is possible for victims of sexual abuse to pursue their compensation claims against the person who assaulted them if it can be established that the perpetrator has sufficient assets (preferably property) to pay that compensation and legal costs.
