Abuse, whether sexual, physical or psychological, is a criminal act and only the criminal law can punish abusers, who may not have the financial means to pay compensation.
However, if the abuse took place whilst you were in care, at school or if you were abused by a person in a position of trust, you may be able to bring a compensation claim against the institution or Local Authority through the Civil Courts.
To establish liability it must be proved that the Local Authority or institution breached its duty of care towards you and this led to some injury – either physical, psychological or both.
There are time limits in place for bringing a claim through the Civil Courts and we can advise you further on these.