What is religious abuse?

Places of worship should be safe places for everyone in the community. Unfortunately this isn't always the case and some of the worst cases of abuse have occurred in religious organisations, such as the Roman Catholic Church and the Church of England. Sadly, some religious leaders have taken advantage of their status, trust and influence amongst their congregations and the public, and have used their positions of power to sexually, physically and psychologically abuse children and vulnerable adults.

Their positions of authority within the church and wider community meant that it was extremely difficult for children and vulnerable adults to report what had happened, and if they did, they were often not believed.

As a result of public inquiries and criminal prosecutions, more victims have felt empowered to speak out and report what happened to them.

In what religions has abuse taken place?

Slater and Gordon have represented many abuse survivors who were abused in religious organisations such as:

• The Catholic Church
• The Church of England
• The Jewish faith
• The Muslim faith
• Jehovah's Witnesses

How do you make a claim for religious abuse?

If you've been abused by a religious leader or someone who works within a religious organisation, even if that abuse took place many years ago when you were a child, not only has a criminal offence been committed, but you've also suffered as a result, and you have the right to seek compensation.

Just like cases of personal injury, if you've been injured, physically and/or psychologically, you should be compensated for your suffering.

If you or a loved one have suffered from religious abuse, no matter how long ago it was, you should contact an experienced lawyer who specialises in representing victims and survivors of abuse as soon as you feel able to. When you're ready to talk to someone, we're here to listen.

How do you know if a lawyer is specialised in representing victims and survivors of abuse?

Abuse law is a very specialised area of law and you need to choose a law firm with genuine expertise. We've represented many hundreds of victims and survivors of religious abuse and have dedicated specialists in England, Scotland and Wales who have helped them get the justice they deserve.

We’ve worked on some of the most high-profile cases in recent years and are dedicated to ensuring you not only receive the compensation and justice you deserve, but you also get the treatment and support needed to enable you to move forward with your life.

We’re recognised as one of the leading firms representing victims of religious abuse. We’ve brought cases against many different religious organisations:

• The Catholic Church
• The Church of England
• The Methodist Church
• Mosques and Madresahs
• Jehovah's Witnesses
• Jewish organisations
• Faith schools, such as Ampleforth College, Downside School and St Benedict's Ealing
• Independent Christian Churches

Will details of your religious abuse stay confidential?

We understand that confidentiality is hugely important to those who've suffered abuse within religious settings, and it takes a lot of courage to speak out about what happened. As solicitors, we’re bound by strict confidentiality and if you decide you want to make a claim, any information you tell us will remain strictly confidential. As part of your claim, it will become necessary for certain authorised people to have access to your information, such as independent medical experts. However, you can rest assured that no information will be disclosed without your prior authority.

In addition, anyone who is the victim or alleged victim of sexual abuse has a guaranteed legal right to anonymity. If it becomes necessary to issue court proceedings, we can reinforce this by making a court application to protect your identity. Our lawyers are highly experienced in this area and will guide and be there for you through the process.

How much will it cost to make a claim for religious abuse?

Our abuse specialists offer a free, confidential consultation to provide you with advice on your case.

If you decide that you wish to make a claim, there are funding options available. We’re able to offer No Win No Fee funding, which means there’s no financial risk for you.

If you’ve suffered abuse within a religious organisation, you can speak to one of our dedicated team in confidence on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online.

We’re professional, yet compassionate and will handle your case with the utmost care and respect.