Medomsley Detention Centre Abuse Claims

Compensation for survivors of abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre

The findings of the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman’s Operation Deerness report have confirmed what survivors of Medomsley Detention Centre have bravely spoken about for decades.

The systemic physical and sexual abuse of thousands of young men between the 1960s and 1980s, and the institutional failures that allowed it to continue unchecked.

The report acknowledges that the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) and other state bodies failed in their duty of care. For many survivors, this represents not only a moral reckoning but also a legal one.

If you were detained at Medomsley and experienced abuse, you may be entitled to compensation and justice through civil legal action against the Ministry of Justice.

What kinds of claims are eligible?

Our specialist team is currently assisting former detainees in bringing claims for:

Physical and sexual abuse suffered at Medomsley
Institutional negligence and failure to protect
Psychological harm resulting from state abuse and cover-ups
Breach of human rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)

We understand that coming forward can be difficult, but you are not alone. All discussions are confidential, handled with care and respect, and most cases can proceed on a no-win, no-fee basis.

How to claim compensation for abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre

If you have suffered historical abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre, contact our in-house team of experts who specialise in claims of this nature.

Your matter will be handled with the utmost care and confidentiality, and we pride ourselves on treating clients with the dignity and compassion they deserve.

Who is the claim against?

Any civil compensation claim for abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre would be brought against the Ministry of Justice, as such matters are the responsibility of the Home Office.

Do I qualify to claim for abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre?

Many survivors of abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre have voiced understandable concerns about whether they’re eligible to make a claim.

The short answer is: yes. In most cases, you do qualify, regardless of how much time has passed or your personal circumstances.

In the next section we address some common frequently asked questions from abuse survivors.

Common questions and concerns from abuse survivors

Here, we address some of the most common worries:

“I thought the claim would be against the individual staff member”
No. Claims are made against the Ministry of Justice, as the Home Office was responsible for operating the detention centre and overseeing its staff.
“The abuse happened a long time ago”
You can still make an historic child abuse claim. There is no strict time limit when it comes to seeking justice for the abuse you endured as a child.
“I’ve been in trouble with the law since, can I still claim?”
Yes. Your criminal record does not affect your right to justice. What happened to you as a child in the care of the state was wrong, and you are entitled to pursue compensation for that abuse.
“I was a young offender, does that matter?”
Absolutely not. Regardless of why you were at Medomsley, you had a right to be safe. Being a young offender does not justify or excuse the abuse you may have suffered.

If you are unsure whether you qualify, our friendly, non-judgmental legal team is here to help. We provide free, confidential advice and support you without pressure or obligation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an historic abuse claim?

If you are a survivor of abuse in the past, whether that be sexual abuse or physical assault, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the impact it had upon your health.

A claim can be made for the physical impact to your health but also, and often more importantly, it can also be made for any damage it may have caused to your mental health.

Compensation can be claimed for personal injury and also any financial losses you may have suffered as a result of your ill health.

What action should I take in the event of abuse?

If you or someone you know has been subjected to abuse, it is crucial to report it to the police immediately. Abuse is a criminal act that requires thorough investigation by the appropriate authorities.

Reporting can help prevent further harm and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

Will I have to face my abuser?

It is very unlikely that you will have to face your abuser, either in court or at any point in the claim.

Most claims are brought against the institution or organisation rather than the perpetrator.

The organisation’s insurers or solicitors will handle the claim. It is unusual for the person who abused you to have to give evidence in a civil case.

What if my abuse happened a while ago?

There are time limits for making a claim for compensation. Each case is considered on its own facts, so depending on circumstances, a claim may still be successful, despite being outside of the time limit.

It is, however, important that a claim is pursued as soon as possible to avoid any time limit complications.

Why should I choose Oakwood Solicitors Ltd to make my claim?

Oakwood Solicitors Ltd agrees to work on your historical abuse claim on a ‘no-win, no-fee’ basis. If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not be expected to pay us a penny.

If you are successful in your claim, we take a percentage of the compensation meaning that the only time we will receive money is if we have brought your claim to a fruitful conclusion.

You will have a dedicated advisor who will see your claim through from start to finish, assisting you in the event of any queries or issues you may have. If it is preferable to you, we can assign you one of our female advisors to conduct your claim.

Your case handler will also continue to provide regular updates until the conclusion of your claim, ensuring the process is as stress-free and effortless as possible.

Molly Frost - Abuse Claims Solicitor

Molly Frost joined the Firm in June 2024 and specializes in abuse compensation claims. Having over 20 years’ experience helping survivors recover compensation, she is considered an expert in her field. Molly has acted as lead Solicitor in several group litigation matters arising out of abuse in children’s homes, and has been involved in several high-profile cases.