Switalskis Solicitors are representing over 250 survivors of historical childhood abuse at Lambeth children’s homes. We are pleased to confirm that over the last six months we have secured in excess of £1.5 million in redress payments for our clients. All damages received go directly to survivors.

To re-cap our previous blogs , last year Lambeth council accepted that historically, many children were psychologically, physically and sexually abused in their care and they agreed to compensate survivors through a redress scheme. This followed the 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 will be 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.

Children that were subjected to abuse in foster placements whilst under the care of Lambeth are also eligible under the scheme.

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”.

In addition to the redress payment, should survivors wish, Lambeth 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 and we are able to advise you on making an application to the scheme and alternative remedies.

If you were subjected to abuse whilst in the care of Lambeth and would like advice please contact Amy Clowrey by email, or you can phone on 0800 138 4700.