Eu-Fern Lai, Trainee Solicitor
Fern works across a range of matters, including family, employment, higher education, civil claims for rape and sexual assault, and historical child sexual abuse.
On the recent episode of the podcast ‘Crisis What Crisis?’, Rupert Soames revealed that, during his schooling, he had experienced “some of the sins of boarding schools, including masters who had an entirely unhealthy appetite for young boys.”
No doubt, many in Britain who attended boarding schools were unsurprised by these comments, which made news chiefly because Soames is the grandson of Sir Winston Churchill. While questions have been raised about the safeguarding of children in boarding schools, the failings of the system have for so long been hidden that such comments are treated as unremarkable.
Soames, currently the chair of the Confederation of the British Industry (CBI), referred in the podcast to his “privileged upbringing” and the “generally fabulous education” that he had received. Not only was Mr Soames from a wealthy background – but his grandfather had been a prominent figure in British politics who was unquestionably powerful and influential. The high profile of Soams made one thing clear: abusers of young children do not discriminate.
Soames went on to refer to the “sort of sepsis in your brain” that hiding experiences of abuse brings. Unfortunately, here again his experiences are all too common. Many men suffer in silence rather than disclose what happened to them. But there is absolutely no shame in speaking up about abuse – to not do so would be to allow it to fester and emanate in ways that can affect one’s ability to function on a day-to-day basis, to have good relationships with partners and children, or to confidently go about life.
What recourse do I have if I experienced sexual abuse as a child?
For those who suffered historical child sexual abuse cases, it can be helpful to remember that in the UK there are no statutory limitations on prosecuting sexual offences. As such, it is always worth approaching the police to report what happened, no matter how long ago.
In civil claims for compensation, there is an applicable statute of limitations to cases of historical child sexual abuse. However, the government has proposed abolishing these limitations. Regardless, courts currently have a discretion to disapply this limitation, if the Claimant can show that there were good reasons for the delay.
Even if you do not wish to pursue any legal action, it is always advisable to speak to someone who can provide you with specialist therapeutic support.
If you experienced sexual abuse as a child, know that the shame should not be yours to bear. There are many resources available to support you through your healing, such as independent charities dedicated to helping victims of child sexual abuse.
To ensure that your best interests are protected, it is always best to seek legal advice as soon as possible. Here at McAllister Olivarius, our trauma-informed solicitors will always provide you with comprehensive information and guide you every step of the way in your pursuit of justice.
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