Legal Experts React After GP Found Guilty Of Multiple Offences

Lawyers who represent survivors of abuse are seeking assurances that patients affected by assaults at the hands of Manish Shah must continue to get the support they require, after the GP was found guilty of a range of sexual offences.

The 50-year-old from Romford was convicted of 25 counts of sexual assault at the Old Bailey this week, after the court heard how he convinced victims to have unnecessary intimate examinations over a four-year period from 2009 and 2013.

The BBC reported that he also made reference to the cases of Jade Goody and Angelina Jolie as he encouraged patients to have a range of checks. He will now be sentenced in relation to the offences at the start of February.

Irwin Mitchell’s specialist abuse team has vast experience of representing those who have suffered as a result of sexual assault, helping survivors to access specialist support and vital funds as they attempt to come to terms with their experiences.

Sallie Booth is a legal expert at Irwin Mitchell with expertise in the area.

Expert Opinion

“This is undoubtedly a hugely disturbing case and it is similar to many others we have been involved in, as it revolves around an individual in a position of power and trust who takes cynical advantage of that responsibility.

“As we have seen through our work, it can take immense courage for survivors of such experiences to come forward and speak out about what they have been through. With that in mind, the bravery of those affected here should be acknowledged.

“Following this conviction, the priority now must be to ensure that survivors can continue to get the support they need following their experiences, whether that is counselling or other forms of therapy. Everything possible must be done to ensure they can get the best from life despite what they have endured.

“We would also urge anyone affected by such issues to simply not suffer in silence. It can take immense amounts of courage, but people can come forward safe in the knowledge that their concerns will be handled sensitively and appropriately.” Sallie Booth - Partner

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