Redress Scheme Following One Of Country’s Worst Child Abuse Scandal Closes On 1 January 2022

A man sexually abused while staying at Lambeth Council children’s homes is urging others affected by the ‘nightmare’ to come forward after lawyers secured a settlement to fund the ongoing support he requires.

The man was subjected to sexual and physical abuse during placements at Larch House, St Saviours and South Vale Assessment Centre during the 1980s. 

Hundreds of children under care of Lambeth Council abused

Hundreds of people have reported they were subjected to a range of abuse - including sexual, physical, racial and psychological abuse - while under the care of Lambeth Council. The abuse is believed to have stretched from the 1950s until a network of children’s homes run by the local authority closed in 1983.

The council admitted that it had failed to protect the children in its care and set up the Lambeth Redress scheme for those affected. This included a ‘Harm’s Way Payment’ of up to £10,000 to former residents as well as separate individual payments - based on an assessment of each individual case - for those subjected to abuse.

Lawyers secure settlement for man abused in Lambeth children's homes 

The man now in his 40s, instructed specialist abuse lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to submit his case under the Redress Scheme. He has now been awarded a six-figure sum. He plans to use this to obtain treatment for the psychological impact of the abuse, as well as to improve his literacy after he received a poor education while in care.

The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons,  has teamed up with Irwin Mitchell to urge other survivors affected by abuse at Lambeth children’s homes to come forward, particularly as the deadline for the redress scheme is approaching. Applications are being accepted until 5pm on 1 January, 2022.

Legal experts support more survivors ahead of redress scheme deadline

The man’s settlement comes after Irwin Mitchell previously secured six-figure settlements for a number of people and families affected by abuse while under the care of Lambeth Council.

Expert Opinion

“It remains shocking to consider the level of abuse that emerged in children’s homes run by Lambeth Council, with many vulnerable young people suffering as a result.

“While nothing can sadly change what has happened, we’re now determined to support those affected. We’re delighted to have helped our client and hope these funds will ensure he can get access to treatment and support he requires as he continues to try to come to terms with his experiences.

“However, with the deadline for applications approaching, we would also urge anyone else affected to not suffer in silence. It can be very difficult to speak out, but all complaints and claims will be handled sensitively and seriously.” Natasha Fairs - Senior Associate Solicitor

Lambeth Council child abuse: Our client's story

The sexual abuse the man suffered started with staff tapping on his bottom before it escalated. The then boy, who was afraid of the dark, would also be locked in a room and the lightbulb taken out.  He was also forced to shower with other boys.

He has endured long-term emotional and psychological issues as a result of the abuse, including insomnia, nightmares and self-harm. He has also struggled with relationships and holding down a job. 

Survivor wants to look to the future

He said: “It is unbearable to think about everything that happened and awful to consider just how much of an impact it has had on my life. No child should have to face the nightmare that I endured. I tried to run away so I could get away from what was happening but each time I would be found and taken back into care.

“While it’s more than 30 years since I was abused the effects didn’t stop when the abuse ended. While I’ve tried to put it behind me and move on what happened has always stayed with me and shaped the adult I’ve become.

“With these funds, I hopefully have a chance to get support that can help me look more positively to the future. The past cannot be changed, but I want to finally be able to try and put it behind me.

“I would also urge anyone else affected by these types of problems to not face it alone. It takes a lot of bravery to speak out, but it can make a massive difference.”

Find out more about our expertise in supporting survivors of abuse, including historic abuse, at our dedicated abuse and criminal injury section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.