Making a claim for teacher sexual abuse
There is something particularly shocking about the sexual abuse of pupils at a school by their teachers or people in other positions of trust including teaching assistants and keyworkers.
They are in a professional position and have authority and control over the pupils. The pupils should be able to trust them. However, employees at schools can misuse that position and the special opportunities that are provided to them by virtue of that position to groom and then sexually assault the pupil.
Sometimes the abuse is non-recent such as the cases which have been in the news over the last few days in relation to Dennis Fletcher who sexually abused a boy at Junior King’s School in Kent and Jonathan Marshall at St Dunstan’s Middle School in Woking.
However, sexual abuse in schools still happens now and this week a former teacher at Beccles High School William Caton pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a 15-year-old girl and was sentenced to 5 years imprisonment.
The sexual abuse by a teacher or someone in a similar position at a school is not only a criminal offence but also a breach of their professional code of conduct.
A complaint to the appropriate regulator can be easier route to justice because the burden of proof is lower than in the criminal process.
At Jordans Solicitors, we have acted for many pupils and ex-pupils who have successfully reported their abuse to the police and the authorities. I have recently recovered damages of £65,000 and £60,000 for the sexual abuse of a pupil by a teaching assistant and keyworker respectively.
If a claim for compensation is made, the school and/or the local education authority will be liable for the assaults if it can be established that the abuse would not have happened but for the abuser’s employment at the school.
The sexual abuse often happens outside the school and the school may try and avoid liability by arguing that the relationship developed outside the school and was not dependent upon or connected to their role at their school. Good evidence to rebut this is essential for the success of the claim.
The sexual abuse is hugely damaging to the pupil. It is devastating for them when a professional who is meant to be caring for them abuses their position of trust. It can have an adverse impact on their academic performance and future career prospects.
How can we help?
Jordans Solicitors are acting on behalf of vulnerable children and young adults whom it is alleged were sexually abused in a number of different types of educational institutions.
We understand how difficult it can be for you to talk about the abuse you suffered during your childhood. That’s why our specially trained child abuse solicitors work closely alongside psychologists and barristers to support you both emotionally and legally.
Compensation is a small step towards taking control of your life and getting the justice you deserve. If you want to discuss the options that are open to you, please contact our specialist Abuse Team at Jordans Solicitors on 0800 9555 094 or request a call back.