The Skircoat Lodge Criminal Trial – how these cases affect the survivors of sexual abuse

High profile non-recent child sex abuse criminal cases such as the recent trial relating to abuse at the Skircoat Lodge Observation and Assessment Centre can impact the survivors of abuse in a number of different ways. 

For those involved in the trial itself, the build up to the trial and giving evidence in the Crown Court can be very difficult despite the special measures that are now available to a trial judge to help the survivor give their best evidence. 

A complex police investigation can often take years to conclude and then the criminal court system is overwhelmed so cases sometimes take years to get to trial. 

My clients have often told me that individual days can feel like months as they wait for the trial date. The process often takes over the lives of the survivor of abuse as they are only able to focus on the criminal case and little else in their life. It can adversely impact their mental health and  sometimes their ability to work. 

The conclusion of the trial then potentially allows the survivor to attempt to undertake trauma-based therapy and to start to attempt to rebuild their life. Others however struggle to find closure even after their abuser is convicted. 

For those not involved in the criminal trial, there are very different reactions. The media reports are important in helping to highlight the history of child sex abuse and the failures in safeguarding by the relevant authority but they can also trigger the survivors who are forced to think about their own abuse which can cause a deterioration in their mental health.   

This can often be exacerbated because of their understandable moral outrage at the failings of the local authority or institution. Their thoughts of betrayal by authority figures can deepen their symptoms and their anger can be intensified by their fears that the local authority has not learnt its lessons.   

Some go to the court to see the alleged abuser give evidence or the jury verdict or sentencing after a conviction. 

For others, they will attempt to cope through cognitive avoidance doing everything they can to not think about their abuse and to avoid media reports in relation to the criminal trial and the outcome because they know they will be triggered by them. 

The Skircoat Lodge trial was a difficult process for a number of my clients for some of the reasons referred to above. However, they all are grateful to a criminal justice system that will hold the perpetrator of the abuse accountable regardless of the time that has passed since the abuse occurred.   

How can Jordans Solicitors 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 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.