We recently wrote about IICSA’s recommendation to the UK Government that it makes the necessary changes to legislation to ensure that the three-year limitation period for personal injury claims brought by victims and survivors of child sexual abuse is removed.
Letter sent by APIL to regional newspapers calling for the removal of the three-year time limit on bringing historical sexual abuse claims
The Association for Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) is a not-for-profit organisation promoting and developing expertise in the practice of personal injury law for the benefit of injured people.
APIL has now joined the fight for justice for survivors of historical sexual abuse by writing a letter to regional newspapers, (reproduced below).
“This Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week serves as a reminder that the Government must take urgent action to help survivors of past child sexual abuse.
Currently, the law dictates that survivors who wish to bring civil claims against their abusers must do so within three years of the abuse, or within three years of turning 18 if they were abused as a child.
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) final report, which investigated historical sexual abuse in England and Wales, recommended removing this three-year time limit and for good reason.
Many survivors of childhood sexual abuse find it difficult to seek justice within the timeframe allowed by the law.
Trauma, shame, mistrust in authorities, and fear are some of the very valid reasons why people hold back on speaking out, let alone take the step to seek justice.
For survivors to be willing finally to go through the ordeal of proving their cases only to then discover they were not quick enough to act can be devastating for them.
The Scottish Government removed this ‘time bar’ in 2017. The Government in Westminster must now implement IICSA’s recommendation without delay.
Kim Harrison, executive committee member.”
The letter has been timed to coincide with Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week.
Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week
Every year, the UK chooses one week in which to raise awareness of sexual abuse and violence. This year, Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week will run from 6 February to 12 February 2023.
During the week, hundreds of events will take place throughout the UK, online and in person to raise awareness and provide an opportunity for individuals to join the conversation about this emotional and often hidden issue.
How can we help?
Dianne Collins is a Senior Associate in our expert Personal Injury team. which has been ranked in tier one by the independently researched publication, The Legal 500.
If you suffered abuse, even if it was a long time ago, in an institution or foster care you may be able to make a claim. If you would like confidential, free advice on whether you can claim compensation, please contact Dianne or Helen Froggatt (Senior Associate) from our team on 0800 024 1976 or via our online enquiry form.
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