30.01.2012
Specialist Team Acting On Behalf Of Parents
Parents who have instructed lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to act for them amid allegations that a former employee of cruise liner operator Cunard abused children on board its Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth ships have spoken of the “nightmare” they are enduring.
Wiltshire Police has confirmed it is investigating the claims, while the NSPCC is
helping parents and children who may want to seek counselling or advice related to the issue.
Irwin Mitchell’s specialist child abuse team, who acts for those who have suffered long-term physical and psychological trauma due to such incidents, has now been instructed on behalf of two children following the allegations.
Tracey Storey, Partner and expert in such cases, outlined: “We’re deeply saddened to hear of the allegations which have emerged in relation to the Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Elizabeth.
“It is a positive sign that victims and their families are being offered advice and support, as the NSPCC has an excellent reputation when it comes to providing important advice and counselling in relation to abuse.
“We hope that every effort is made to ensure that children and parents who may be affected by this are able to access the help they need both now and in the future.”
The parents who have instructed the firm said: "We were devastated and shocked when the police contacted us and we are certain that the many other families involved are feeling the same. We are fully behind the police investigation.
"Ensuring justice through the criminal courts is paramount but we want to make it clear that we will not stop there. We will seek a full explanation from Cunard as to how this was allowed to happen and to ensure lessons are learned. No child or parent should have to go through what we are. What should have been a dream holiday has turned into a nightmare”
