Figures have today been published following a BBC investigation which show that since October 2012 £897,000.00 has been paid in damages following abuse by Scout Masters.
As a lawyer specialising in this type of work I am surprised that these figures are so low. We ourselves have dealt with various cases involving abuse of Cub Scouts and Scouts and I opened a file within the last week for a man who suffered historic abuse at the hands of a Scout Master in the 1990’s.
In the context of the growing public perception of abuse claims I am surprised that such a relatively low amount of compensation has been recovered for these very serious claims.
Damages in sexual abuse cases tend to be significant. Abuse not only affects the victim at the time it occurs but can have effects which linger for the rest of a person’s life. Their ability to earn money can be affected particularly as the abuse often occurs at a vital time during their education. Expensive treatment is often needed to overcome the effects of the abuse. I had a Joint Settlement Meeting yesterday where we refused an offer of £500,000.00 for a client who had suffered historic abuse.
Whilst I therefore find the BBC report encouraging in that it does suggest that people are coming forward still to report this terrible abuse I find it surprising that the figure recovered in compensation is relatively low.
Here at Farleys solicitors our specialist Abuse Claims department are experts in helping victims of physical or sexual abuse pursue compensation. Whilst we realise the initial process of filling a claim may seem daunting, our solicitors will be here to support you through the entirety of the process, for further advice please don’t hesitate to call us on 0845 050 1958, or email us.
Alternatively we also have a free online chat service where you can speak directly with an experienced abuse claims solicitor.