A report in the Somerset County Gazette on sex abuse in football has featured a member of our abuse team.
Lawyer Elizabeth Duncan is quoted as saying that the revelations could be the tip of “an extremely large and extremely unpleasant iceberg” which may go well beyond the world of football.
The article follows on from reports that Avon & Somerset Police have received calls about historic sex abuse from a number of youth team players alleging they have been abused by their coaches.
Elizabeth warns that other sports are likely to be affected by the problem, including swimming and gymnastics. The close relationship that inevitably develops between coach and athlete in sport, particularly at elite levels, can put young people in a vulnerable position. Children can become easy prey for abusers looking to use sport as an opportunity to groom and exploit them.
The article also highlights the work of another member of our abuse team who was recently interviewed on Sky News concerning a former football player released from a confidentiality clause which had prevented him from speaking out about his experiences.
Elizabeth can be reached on 01823 354545 and is happy to speak on a confidential, free of charge basis with anyone who has been the victim of sex abuse in sport or any other walk of life.