Farleys were instructed on behalf of Client C and Client D in connection with claims against Greater Manchester Police (‘GMP’) for false imprisonment and breach of the Human Rights Act.

Background

C and her partner contacted GMP with concerns that their child was at risk of grooming. They called 999 out of concern for the child. The child was present, along with two adults who were subject to Child Abduction Warning Notices.

When the police attended, C and D were arrested for affray. They were told by Police that this was just a formality for them to attain the facts of the situation.

When they arrived at Wigan Police station, they were left in the Police van outside of the station for more than an hour.

C was detained for approximately 16 hours and D was detained for approximately 17 hours.

C pressed the cell buzzer to request toilet paper whilst menstruating, however, none was provided and she had to resort to using her jumper to clean herself.

C and D were both released on bail and it was later confirmed there would be no further action.

Involvement in Baird Inquiry

C’s experiences with the Police were reviewed as part of the Vera Baird Inquiry, which looked into the treatment of women and girls who are arrested and taken into custody by GMP.

The Baird Inquiry found that failure to respond to urgent needs for sanitary products in custody is emerging as a systemic issue and that sanitary products should be provided in cells where female arrestees are detained.

How Farleys Helped

A Letter of Claim was sent to GMP on behalf of C, and a further Letter of Claim on behalf of her partner. An offer to settle both claims was put forward and following negotiations, offers were accepted.

C’s damages included an award for aggravated damages and breach of the Human Rights Act, due to the additional distress she suffered.

Contact a Specialist in False Imprisonment Claims

To discuss a potential claim in confidence with a member of our team, please call 0845 287 0939. Alternatively, you can get in touch by email or through the online chat below.