Compensation for child abuse

A former choir master has been sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment, on the 26th April at Winchester Crown Court, after pleading guilty to offences of sexual abuse of three young boys between 1985-1990. The man was also ordered to pay £2,000 in compensation after admitting to ten counts of abuse, and was also placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life, prohibiting him from working with children.

An initial complaint of abuse was made in 1990 to the relevant church authorities, but a report was never made to the police. The law was changed shortly afterwards making it obligatory to report credible child abuse accusations to the police. The indecent assaults occurred over a period of years during swimming classes, camping trips and after sports events.
In sentencing, the Judge stated he was "in a position of trust and responsibility to these young boys. These children would have looked up to you as their choirmaster... You repeatedly and systematically abused these boys and groomed them."

If you or someone you know has been affected by child abuse, our experts can help claim compensation. Fill in our online claims form for free legal advice.