The Association admitted that between its formation in 1907 and October 2012 it had seen only 12 abuse compensation claims being made against it. But in the last 2 years alone the Scout Association has faced 36 abuse claims.
In a statement made by the Scouts an apology was issued to victims of historical sex abuse:
“We apologise to all those who have been abused during their time in Scouting. The safety and support of young people in Scouting is our number one priority”.
A spokesman for the organisation said they were ‘deeply sorry’ for what had occurred.
Our abuse lawyers have seen a sharp rise in the number of enquiries they are receiving from abuse victims, including calls from people who have suffered abuse while associated with the Scouts.
“People are no longer afraid of speaking out”, said abuse solicitor, Elizabeth Duncan. “The publicity produced by high profile cases involving celebrities like Savile has given them the courage to come forward and share their experiences. Some victims have bottled up their emotions for many years and this has made it more difficult for them to deal with the turmoil and come to terms with what has happened in the past. Thankfully, things are now changing and I am glad that organisations like the Scouts (who do so much that is positive for young people) are facing up to their historical legacy.”
Elizabeth continued, “I am expecting many, many more scouts to come forward in the months ahead.”
