Child Abuse Claims

When you’re ready, you can start a claim for child abuse compensation with the help of our specialist abuse solicitors across the UK. We have been seeking justice from those responsible for abusing survivors like you for decades.

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Where to start

If you were abused as a child, or you’re the parent or carer of a child who’s been abused, it may not feel like there's anyone to turn to. But there are procedures and support systems in place to help, and our child abuse lawyers could help you claim compensation from those responsible.

Meet a specialist from our team

Our market leading team will help you understand your rights, secure the compensation you’re owed, and access vital support – from rehabilitation to long-term care.

Who can claim compensation for child abuse?

If you're the parent or guardian of a child who has been abused, or a survivor of abuse yourself, then you could claim compensation.

 

You can also claim on behalf of a loved one who has died as a result of abuse, or who lacks the mental capacity to make their own legal decisions. Making a claim isn’t limited to a certain kind of abuse. We've helped our clients claim child abuse compensation for sexual abuse, as well as physical and psychological harm, and neglect.

 

It doesn't matter who the abuser was – if someone has taken advantage of their position of trust or authority, or if an organisation responsible for the safety of children has failed to adequately provide protection, then a claim could be made.

 

You generally have until your 21st birthday to make a claim, but there is often a case for making a claim after this date. Whether or not you'll be able claim for non-recent child abuse is judged on a case-by-case basis by the courts, so it's best to get in touch with us for some advice.

Why choose Irwin Mitchell’s child abuse solicitors?

Child abuse can be difficult to deal with, and it helps to have the experts on your side when trying to seek justice from your abuser, or an organisation that allowed abuse to happen.

Our child abuse lawyers are recognised as leaders in their field, with a proven track record in child abuse claims. Some of our specialist solicitors help lead the legal industry in its approach to child abuse cases.

Alongside our legal experts, you’ll be supported by our Support and Rehabilitation Coordinators. They’re trained clinical experts who can help you identify the support you or your loved one would benefit from. They’ll also help you find that support and make sure it’s local to you.

If the abuse has left you unable to work, our Welfare Benefits team can help you understand what means-tested benefits you could receive.

Speak to a Specialist

We are here to help you understand your rights and the support you need. Complete our enquiry form and one of our experts will contact you by the next working day.


Alternatively, you can call us now.


Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (Excluding Public Holidays).

0370 1500 100

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Choosing the right services for you

We'll work closely with you, in total confidentiality, throughout your case. Our solicitors have dedicated their careers to helping survivors of child physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. We’ll be there for you too.

We were the first UK firm to help a family, who were subjected to severe historic child abuse, claim compensation of over £1 million.

Can I make an historic child abuse claim?

Yes, even though the time limit for making a claim is three years from the date of the abuse, a court can waive this.
We’ve experience helping abuse survivors and their families get a time limit waived through the court system.

Can you help if the abuse took place in Scotland?

Yes, we’ve a specialist team that handle our Scottish abuse claims. Led by Kim Leslie, one of the leading abuse and personal injury lawyers in Scotland, we’re able to offer legal support to Scottish clients. Our team can also help with Redress Scotland claims.

Our locations

Work with a full-service firm with solicitors in 21 UK locations, giving you national expertise with local support.
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Recognised for excellence. Chosen for care.

  • Legal 500 Top Tier Firm UK 2026
  • Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025
  • ePrivateClient Top Law Firms 2025
  • Chambers High Net Worth 2025