Publication Uncovers Shocking Scale Of Abuse Through The Decades

Lawyers who specialise in supporting survivors of abuse insist that lessons must be learned from the “appalling” issues raised by a new report into the treatment of children in the care of both Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council.

The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) has published a report which found that around 350 individuals reported being abused while in the care of the local authorities from the 1960s and onwards.

Furthermore, it also concluded that the abuse of children was widespread in both residential and foster care placements. The abuse included rape, sexual assault and other forms of physical abuse.

Looking specifically at Beechwood Children’s Home, IICSA found that despite a number of reports being made regarding child sexual abuse only two disciplinary actions were ever actually undertaken. The report also concluded that the councils in question still do not have a defined process for the  reporting of child sexual abuse complaints.

Irwin Mitchell’s specialist Abuse team has vast experience of providing advice and support to people who have been affected by such problems and also represent a number of clients with ongoing claims against Nottingham City Council.

The team, including Luke Daniels, a Partner and expert lawyer supporting survivors of abuse, have also previously given evidence to IICSA regarding other sex abuse investigations.

Expert Opinion

“The findings of the IICSA’s report are truly staggering and hugely disturbing. Councils have a duty to support and care for vulnerable members of their communities and it is incredibly shocking to see how this simply did not happen in this region for decades.

“It is clear that lessons have to be learned from these truly appalling problems and the councils need to work quickly and thoroughly to ensure the mistakes of the past are never seen again.

“It is also important to highlight the incredible courage and bravery of those who have spoken out on this issue, as through our work we have seen how difficult it can be for survivors of such abuse to come forward and share their experiences.

“We also hope that all of those involved here are able to continue to access support which will help them take at least some steps towards coming to terms with the ordeals they have endured.” Luke Daniels - Partner

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting survivors of sexual abuse