In 2016, Andy Woodward gave an interview with a sports journalist during which he talked about the horrific abuse he suffered from the age of 11 by one of his coaches. His disclosure prompted many other former football players to come forward with their own stories of abuse. The Football Association decided that it should launch an independent inquiry into how this had been allowed to happen.
The inquiry, conducted by Clive Sheldon QC, liaised with various football clubs, the FA, the Premier League, and the police who were investigating the allegations under Operation Hydrant and after a four-year investigation, the FA’s report was published yesterday.
Independent Review into Child Sexual Abuse in Football 1970-2005
The report concluded that it is not possible to know how many children suffered sexual abuse in football between the years 1970-2005 but as of August 2020 figures showed that there were 240 suspects in football with 692 survivors. That figure is likely to be higher in reality.
The report found that there was no guidance provided to those working in football regarding safeguarding during the years of the review. Club staff and officials were generally unaware of child protection issues and were not trained to pick up the signs of potential abuse.
Since 2016, several of the perpetrators have now been brought to justice.
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse has welcomed the FA’s independent inquiry stating:
“The extensive review details a tragic and disturbing insight into abuses of power and trust within professional football. The Inquiry will take it into account when compiling its Final Report, due to be published in 2022.”
In March 2019, Manchester City Football Club launched a Redress Scheme for survivors of sexual abuse whereby they would receive financial compensation and a formal apology.
How Nelsons can help
Dianne Collins is a Senior Associate in our expert Personal Injury team.
If you have suffered sexual abuse even if it was a long time ago, and you would like confidential, free advice on whether you can claim compensation, please contact Dianne or another member of the team in Derby, Leicester or Nottingham on 0800 024 1976 or contact us via our online form.