The Eastwood Park Compensation Scheme is set to open soon for victims of abuse that occurred while attending the Eastwood Park Detention Centre.
Located in Falfield, South Gloucestershire, Eastwood Park first opened in 1964 to house 95 boys.
Detention Centres were established by the 1948 Criminal Justice Act, designed to provide a ‘short sharp shock’ to 14-20-year-olds serving sentences of up to three months.
However, over time it has become apparent that many staff members misused the power granted to them, leading to physical abuse of the young detainees.
Former attendees of Eastwood Park may now be eligible to seek compensation for the abuse they endured from staff who were supposed to care for them. AbuseClaims.co.uk is here to support you through your claim and help you pursue justice.
Our team of experienced solicitors specializes in cases against institutions like Eastwood Park, ensuring you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.
Molly Frost, Abuse Claims Solicitor at AbuseClaims.co.uk said:
“There were hundreds of young people that would have attended Eastwood Park and we are concerned that there are people out there who do not know about the scheme or that they may be entitled to compensation. We would urge anyone who attended Eastwood Park to contact us.”
Compensation Scheme for survivors of abuse at Eastwood Park Detention Centre
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed the establishment of a compensation scheme for former detainees who suffered physical abuse or assaults at Eastwood Park.
While it took some time for the scheme to be finalised, dedicated lawyers have been advocating for this and engaging in discussions with the Ministry of Justice. We are pleased that the scheme is now confirmed and ready for those who qualify.
What is Eastwood Park?
Eastwood Park, located in Falfield, South Gloucestershire, opened in 1964, initially housing 95 boys. It was expanded in 1975 to accommodate 146 individuals and later became a Young Offenders Institution in 1989. Since 1995, it has functioned as a women’s prison.
Detention Centres, established under the 1948 Criminal Justice Act, were meant to provide a ‘short sharp shock’ for young offenders aged 14-20, who were typically serving sentences of up to three months. Unfortunately, many staff members abused their positions of power, resulting in the physical mistreatment of detainees.
Patrick Devaney, a former officer at Eastwood Park, was found guilty of misconduct in a public office after being involved in repeatedly assaulting boys in his care during his tenure from 1970 to 1983.
How will the Scheme Work and Who is Eligible to Claim Compensation?
The compensation scheme will offer three categories of claims:
- Individuals who spent up to three months at Eastwood Park
- Individuals who stayed longer than three months at the Centre
- Those who suffered lasting physical or psychological injuries as a direct result of their treatment, regardless of the length of their stay
How much compensation could I receive?
Compensation amounts will range from £3,000 to £9,500. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice has confirmed that an apology will be included as part of the settlement.
Under the scheme, claimants will receive the full amount of their compensation, as separate provisions will be made to cover legal fees. This means that no fees will be deducted from your compensation.
Can I still claim if I suffered sexual abuse at Eastwood Park?
Claims related to sexual abuse are expected to be considered under the scheme. However, your solicitor will provide specific advice on this matter, as you may also have the option to pursue a civil claim for sexual abuse outside the scheme.
How do I pursue a claim under the scheme?
At AbuseClaims.co.uk, we have a dedicated team with over 20 years of experience supporting survivors of abuse. Our specialists have handled numerous cases similar to the Eastwood Park claims and are skilled in both scheme claims and civil litigation.
We will manage the entire process for you and work to secure the maximum compensation you’re eligible for under the scheme.
To find out more about your potential Eastwood Park claim or your eligibility for compensation, please contact our team on 0113 306 9001 or fill out the enquiry form on this page.
Further reading
Physical abuse – abuseclaims.co.uk
Sexual abuse – abuseclaims.co.uk
Civil abuse claims – Oakwood Solicitors
WHAT TO DO NEXT
Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation. Choose one of the methods on the right-hand side of this page, or call us on 0113 306 9001 to find out how we can help you.
