Institutional Abuse
Institutional Abuse is the mistreatment by a person in authority or with responsibility of an individual under the care of an institution or organisation. This abuse can range from neglect and poor care to sexual and physical abuse within a care setting.
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At P.A Duffy & Co Solicitors, we represent victims of institutional abuse across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Our human rights team are experienced, understanding and sympathetic and will work tirelessly on your behalf to secure the compensation you are owed for what has happened.
Where can Institutional Abuse occur?
Schools
Foster Homes
NHS (hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centres)
Emergency children’s placements
Religious organisations; churches, convents
Out of school activities- drama/sport club
Work environment
How our human rights solicitors can help
At P.A. Duffy & Co. Solicitors, we realise that the long-term effects which institutional abuse has on a survivor are devastating. This can lead to damaged mental, social, and physical wellbeing.
It therefore important to seek the right legal advice to secure the compensation you deserve and require. We understand that this compensation will not correct the abuse you endured however it will help you afford after treatment, such as counselling, therapy sessions, a safe living environment and travelling to and from the hospital and support groups.
If you or a loved one is/has experienced institutional abuse, please follow the simple steps below to contact our Human Rights legal team and we will be sure to follow up on your enquiry.
FAQs
What responsibilities do institutions have?
Practitioners who work within an institution have a duty of care and professionalism to those who use the service. If you believe you are/have been abused by someone who owed a duty of care, you may be entitled to compensation.
What types of institutional abuse can form the basis of a case?
Depriving the individual off adequate food and drink/ starving the individual
Misuse of medication
Neglecting the individuals’ religious, ethnic, and cultural needs
Preventing the individual off visits from family and friends
Physical/Sexual Abuse
Emotional Abuse- Blackmail
Failing to provide the individual with medical/personal equipment.
Delivering a neglected, congested, unhygienic, lack/poor quality of staff in the institution.
Inappropriate use of force
Failure to implement the individual’s privacy.
Failure to protect individual from harm- e.g. not cautioning an abusive service user
How can I finance an institutional abuse case?
We know that funding a case of this nature might be a worry, so we offer a range of options. These include:
Legal Aid
Legal expenses cover
After the Event insurance (ATE insurance)
Private payment
Our first consultation is free and we will be happy to discuss funding with you to find the best option for your circumstances.
What is the time limit for bringing an institutional abuse compensation claim?
There is no specific statutory time limit for bringing an institutional abuse claim. This means that there may not be a strict legal deadline by which you must file your claim. However, it is still important to act promptly, as gathering evidence and pursuing a claim can become more challenging with time.
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Our team of expert solicitors will be happy to assist you with your enquiry without any obligation to use our services. Contact us using your preferred method and we will gratefully assist.
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Our Human Rights Solicitors
Conal McGarrityDirectorMore About Conal
Enda McGarritySolicitorMore About Enda
Naomi WhiteSolicitorMore About Naomi
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