Switalskis represent over 400 survivors of abuse in Lambeth and, to date, have settled over 165 cases with damages reaching a total in excess of £8 million pounds in redress payments for our clients. All damages received go directly to survivors.

In 2017, Lambeth council accepted that, historically, many children were psychologically, physically and sexually abused in their care. They agreed to compensate survivors through a redress scheme. This followed on from the hard work of Shirley Oaks Survivors Association (SOSA) and in particular the publication of a report called “Looking for a Place Called Home” by SOSA.

All former residents of Lambeth children’s homes and Shirley Oaks Primary School prior to their closure in the 1980s and 1990s are eligible and the scheme includes a “Harm’s Way Payment” of up to £10,000. The Harms Way Payment aims to compensate former residents for the environment they were subjected to whilst in Lambeth children’s homes – payment does not depend upon whether or not a person was subjected to abuse whilst they were in the care of Lambeth council.

If former residents were sexually, physically, racially and/or psychologically abused then such residents would also be entitled to further payment/redress under the “Individual Redress Payment”.

Children that were subjected to abuse in foster placements whilst under the care of Lambeth council are also eligible under the scheme. Those who suffered abuse whilst in the care of Lambeth who are now deceased are also able to make an Application and all damages recovered would go to the beneficiaries of their estate.

In addition to the redress payment, should survivors wish, Lambeth council have agreed to offering a written apology and a meeting with a senior member of the council. Other services such as counselling and signposting for advice on welfare, housing and education are also available.

Applications to the redress scheme should not be delayed.  The last date for submitting applications is 1st January 2022.