Over recent years, the profile of sexual offences has been raised significantly due to the various cases involving well-known individuals, the Children’s Commissioner’s Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation in the family environment, the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Exploitation in Rotherham and, most recently, the high profile cases associated with football.

Our specialist abuse department has certainly been met with a vast increase in the number of claims that have been brought to us from or on behalf of sexual abuse victims.

Recent research shows that victims of childhood sexual abuse are twice as likely to develop clinical depression and that early support is vital to minimising the long-term impact of mental health issues. Despite this, there are claims that in many areas within the UK, the NHS has still not adequately planned for the mental health needs of victims.

Data from the NSPCC estimates that 48,000 abused children in Lancashire and South Cumbria alone are living in an area with inadequate planning for their mental health needs.

Lack of proper planning in relation to mental health delivery may result in victims –

  • Failing to consistently attend education, training or employment
  • Experiencing difficulties in maintaining healthy relationships
  • Lacking self-esteem/confidence/worth
  • Being mistrusting of others
  • Abusing alcohol/substances
  • Self-harming, having suicidal thoughts and/or ultimately, committing suicide

Ultimately, victims will frequently need mental health support in order to have the best possible chance of leading healthy and positive lives. Therefore it is vital that we see an improvement, not only regionally but nationally, in order that the current and subsequent generations receive the mental health support they need and in an organised and timely manner.

Farleys Solicitors are accredited specialists in abuse law, with an excellent reputation in this area. Our extensive experience in the field means that our expert solicitors are unrivalled in both knowledge and expertise, having secured millions of pounds of compensation on behalf of individuals who have suffered physical, mental or sexual abuse at the hands of family members, carers or organisations.

Please feel free to contact us in confidence on our dedicated Abuse Line 0330 134 6430 or submit your enquiry online.