Types of abuse and settings

Abuse can take many forms and occur in various settings. Whether a child has suffered physical, mental, or sexual abuse, or neglect, the consequences can cause lasting harm and profoundly affect their future well-being. Much of the historical child abuse we hear about occurred in environments where children should have been safe and protected, but tragically, this was not the case.

It can often feel challenging to identify who is responsible for historical abuse, but Thompsons Solicitors can help you seek justice, even if the perpetrator has died or the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) are not pursuing your case.

Working with survivors of historical abuse

Thompsons' specialist Life Impact Team is currently working with clients who experienced abuse in a range of settings. Our cases include:

Examples of cases we are currently pursuing include claims against:

Local authorities: Glasgow City Council (Foster Carers, Park Lodge Children's Home, Kerelaw Secure Unit), Aberdeen City Council, North Lanarkshire Council, East Renfrewshire Council
Independent organisations: Fettes College, Quarriers, Waverley Paddle Steamer, Dr Krishna Singh
Membership organisations: Boys Brigade
Religious institutions: De La Salle Brothers, Marist Brothers, Sisters of Nazareth, Archdiocese of Glasgow, Congregation of Christian Brothers, Daughters of Charity of St Vincent De Paul
Sports clubs: Celtic FC, Liverpool FC, Rangers

Our team handles every case with the utmost confidentiality, ensuring your details remain protected. We understand how stressful recounting such personal and painful experiences can be and offer access to specialist care and support services to help you through the process.

Abuse by Individuals

At Thompsons, we recognise the courage it takes to pursue justice for abuse suffered at the hands of an individual. Our trauma-informed approach ensures survivors are treated with care, respect, and dignity throughout the process.

If you have reported the abuse to the police, we can help you make a claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The formal application process requires a police crime reference number, even if the case is not pursued further.

In addition to CICA claims, we will also explore the possibility of a civil claim against the individual or any related organisation. To pursue a civil claim, the perpetrator must have personal assets or funds to compensate you.

Membership Organisation Historical Child Abuse Claims

Membership organisations like Scouts, Cubs, Rainbows, Brownies, and Guides have a legal and moral duty to protect the children in their care. Unfortunately, deliberate abuse - whether physical, mental, or sexual - represents the most serious breach of trust. Survivors are entitled to seek compensation from those responsible for their mistreatment and suffering.

Until 2017, survivors in Scotland were often prevented from making claims due to strict time limits. However, legislative changes now allow survivors to pursue justice regardless of when the abuse occurred.

Thompsons’ Life Impact Team has extensive experience handling claims against membership organisations and religious institutions. We provide trauma-informed services to help survivors navigate the complex legal landscape and secure financial compensation.

No Upfront Costs

We operate on a No Win No Fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs to begin your claim. If your case is unsuccessful, you will not pay a penny. We are committed to ensuring access to justice for all survivors without financial barriers.

Comprehensive Support

We work closely with leading abuse charities in Scotland to connect you with counselling and other support services. Whether you wish to meet us alone or with a support worker, family member, or friend, our team will ensure you feel supported throughout your legal journey.

Even if the abuse occurred many years ago, the perpetrator has died, or the police are not pursuing the case, we can still help. Your well-being and interests are always at the centre of the process, and you remain in control of how your case moves forward.

Contact Us

If you are considering making a claim, speak to our specialist Life Impact Team today. We use plain, jargon-free language to explain your options and will provide as much time and support as you need to make an informed decision.

We are here to help with no obligation, and all communications will be handled with strict confidentiality.

Types of Abuse and Who is Responsible