Historic Child Abuse Claims Solicitors Glasgow, Scotland

Assisting survivors obtain justice

Our team of dedicated personal injury solicitors are experienced in dealing with historic abuse claims. We regularly represent clients in the Court of Session and the Sheriff Court, in matters related to physical, mental and sexual abuse. We are one of the few Scottish firms who have represented clients in both the English and Scottish child abuse inquiries. 

Changes in the law – Limitation (Childhood Abuse) (Scotland) Act 2017

The recent changes to the law in this area means that in some cases the previous time limit for historic abuse claims has been removed. The new legislation allows for those who have suffered abuse as a child, an opportunity to access justice and seek compensation.

Claims process

We are aware disclosing the abuse you have suffered will be one of the most difficult decisions you undertake. We also understand victims and survivors can feel that the legal process is very daunting. We are here to assist you through this and ensure you receive the support and compensation you are entitled to.

Historical abuse claims against foster carers

Prior to the Supreme Court judgement in Armes v Nottinghamshire County Council, survivors of abuse would not only find barriers to submit claims in respect of coming within the timescales set out by the law (3 years from the date of abuse or from the date of adulthood) but would also have the difficulty of establishing that the local authority held some of responsibility for the actions of foster carers.

The Supreme Court judgement in Armes v Nottinghamshire County Council now changes that, alongside the change in law to extend the time bar period. The case establishes what is known as vicarious liability, namely that the local authority is responsible for the acts and omissions perpetrated by foster carers. This is a far reaching decision for victims of abuse.

Livingstone Brown continue to represent a number of survivors of abuse sustained in foster care placements. We have a specialist team who have assisted numerous survivors in obtaining justice for wrongful acts committed against them.

Redress Scheme for survivors of Historic Child Abuse

The Redress for Survivors (Historic Child Abuse in Care) (Scotland) Bill came into force in December 2021. This will allow for survivors of child abuse whilst in care in Scotland to apply for financial redress. The purpose of the scheme is to acknowledge and provide tangible recognition of harm because of historical child abuse in various settings in Scotland. The scheme not only provides financial redress to the survivors but also non-financial redress such as psychological support. Livingstone Brown are currently processing many redress applications and offer specialist assistance from the outset. If you are seeking advice on the redress scheme, we would advise you to seek assistance prior to applying. 

Please see our dedicated section of our website for financial redress for further information and links below:

• Redress 
• Redress Scheme for Survivors of Historical Abuse
• Redress Scotland Scheme - Assisting survivors of child abuse in care
• Redress for Survivors (Historical Child Abuse in Care) Scotland Bill

Contact our personal injury lawyers for Glasgow, Scotland

Livingstone Brown can guide you through the claims process and ensure you feel at ease during each stage of the process. Our sensitive and dedicated team are experienced in dealing with your case in a confidential and respectful manner.

After an initial meeting discussing the details of your claim, we can explain the options open to you before beginning the process of pursuing a claim for compensation against the individual or organisation responsible.

It may be necessary to instruct an expert in your case to prepare a report on your psychological injuries and if appropriate, a report on the impact the abuse may have had on your employment prospects.

If you would like further information, please contact our specialist team who would be happy to assist on 0141 429 8166 or by completing our online form.