Episode 276: The Church of England’s Hidden Scandal – Unveiling the John Smyth QC Abuse Case
In this episode of the H.J. Talks About Abuse podcast, Alan Collins, head of the Hugh James abuse team, delves into the harrowing findings of the Keith Makin report. The report reveals the Church of England’s longstanding cover-up of the abusive actions of the late John Smyth QC, a prominent lawyer and part-time judge.
John Smyth, who was heavily involved in evangelical Christianity, is accused of physically, sexually, emotionally, and spiritually abusing numerous boys and young men in England and Zimbabwe. Despite being confronted about his actions as early as 1982, Smith continued his abuse for decades, shielded by the Church’s inaction and failure to report his crimes to the authorities.
This episode critically examines the Church of England’s systemic failures in safeguarding, the disturbing minimisation of abuse, and the need for justice and atonement for Smyth’s victims. As Alan Collins discusses these issues, he emphasises the importance of empowering survivors and ensuring their voices are heard.
Listeners are urged to reflect on the Church’s responsibilities and the broader implications of institutional cover-ups in cases of abuse. If you are affected by the content of this episode, the Hugh James team encourages you to reach out for support and guidance.
Episode 275: Unveiling Justice – The Courage Behind Grooming Gang Convictions
In this gripping episode of the H.J. Talks About Abuse podcast, Alan Collins, head of the abuse team at Hugh James, delves into the harrowing case of 20 men convicted of sexually exploiting young girls in West Yorkshire. While the details of the crimes are distressing, the focus is on the significant courage shown by the survivors who came forward, leading to these convictions.
Alan highlights the systemic failures that allowed such exploitation to occur, emphasising the vulnerability of the victims, many of whom were let down by the systems meant to protect them. The episode also discusses the legal processes involved in seeking justice and the critical role of compensation in helping survivors rebuild their lives.
Join us as we explore the broader implications of these cases and the importance of recognising the resilience of survivors who have bravely navigated the criminal justice system to hold their abusers accountable.
Episode 274: Unveiling the Shadows – Allegations Against the Seventh-day Adventist Church
In this gripping episode of the H.J. Talks About Abuse podcast, host Alan Collins delves into the disturbing allegations surrounding the Seventh-day Adventist Church, as reported by Channel 4 News. The episode sheds light on claims that a prominent church member, the late Donald Kelly, was involved in the sexual abuse of young boys over several decades.
Alan discusses the church’s alleged failure to act on repeated warnings about Kelly’s abusive behavior, and the subsequent investigation commissioned by the church under pressure from victims. He explores the broader implications of these allegations, emphasising the need for mandatory reporting laws to protect victims and ensure accountability.
Join us as we confront the challenging realities faced by survivors of sexual abuse and the importance of legal and cultural changes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Episode 273: Unveiling the Challenges – An Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse
In this week’s episode, Alan Collins, head of the abuse team at Hugh James, delves into a thought-provoking article from the Law Society Gazette. The focus is on the independent inquiry into child sexual abuse, a significant and complex issue that continues to affect society. Collins discusses the origins of the inquiry, its findings, and the recommendations it has put forth.
The episode highlights the inquiry’s comprehensive examination of various institutions and its damning conclusions about the prevalence of child sexual abuse in the country. Collins reflects on the lack of progress in implementing mandatory reporting and redress schemes for survivors, emphasizing the importance of these measures for delivering justice and support.
He also addresses the challenges related to reforming the Limitation Act 1980 and the need for careful consideration in drafting new legislation. Throughout the episode, Collins underscores the necessity of political action and awareness among MPs to bring about meaningful change for survivors of child sexual abuse.
Episode 272: Revisiting the Menendez Brothers – Unveiling a Tragic Tale of Abuse
In this compelling episode of H.J. Talks About Abuse, Kathleen Hallisey and Hannah Hodgson delve into the infamous Menendez brothers case, shedding light on a tragic story that intertwines wealth, power, and horrific abuse. While the brothers are notorious for the brutal murder of their parents, this discussion uncovers the underlying narrative of alleged sexual abuse that shaped their lives and legal battles.
As new evidence emerges, including testimonies that could alter the course of their convictions, Kathleen and Hannah explore the complex dynamics of familial abuse and societal perceptions at the time of the trial. They discuss how perceptions of abuse have evolved and why it’s crucial to understand the depth and impact of such experiences.
The episode also emphasises the importance of addressing misconceptions about abuse, especially within affluent families, and the lasting effects on survivors. Join Kathleen and Hannah as they navigate this sensitive yet significant topic, offering insights and reflections on a case that continues to spark conversation and controversy.
Epispde 271: Unveiling Allegations – The Complex Legacy of Mohammed Al-Fayed
In this episode of the “H.J. Talks About Abuse” podcast, hosts Alan Collins and Danielle Vincent delve into the controversial legacy of the late Mohammed Al-Fayed. Known for his association with Harrods and other high-profile ventures, Al-Fayed has recently become the subject of serious allegations of sexual abuse.
Alan and Danielle explore the media attention surrounding these claims, discussing their involvement in pursuing legal cases against Al-Fayed’s estate and Harrods. They highlight the complexities of the allegations, noting parallels with past notorious cases, and emphasize the broader issues faced by survivors of sexual abuse.
The episode also sheds light on the power dynamics within Harrods during Al-Fayed’s tenure, revealing troubling accounts of abuse and coercion. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the significance of these revelations and are urged to seek support if affected by the topics discussed.
Episode 270: Northern Ireland Redress Scheme – Act Before It’s Too Late
In this episode of the HJ Talks About Abuse podcast, hosts Danielle and Hannah delve into the crucial topic of the Northern Ireland Redress Scheme, which is set to close on April 2, 2025. They discuss the scheme’s significance, covering cases from 1922 to 1995, and emphasise the importance of applying before the deadline.
The hosts explore the nuances of the scheme, including eligibility criteria and the range of compensation available, which spans from £10,000 to £80,000. They highlight the scheme’s unique aspects, such as its coverage of the Australian Child Migrant Program and the possibility for applications on behalf of deceased individuals who were in institutions.
Danielle and Hannah also share insights on how to navigate the application process with the help of a solicitor, stressing the importance of spreading awareness so that eligible individuals don’t miss out. They encourage listeners to reach out for guidance and to consider the potential benefits of applying, even for cases involving bullying or lesser-known abuses.
Listeners are urged to contact the Hugh James team for further assistance and to ensure they don’t miss this critical opportunity for redress. Tune in to learn more about how this scheme could impact you or someone you know.
Episode 269: Unveiling the Shadows – Sexual Abuse in Mental Health Settings
In this episode, Alan Collins, head of the abuse team, and colleague Dani Vincent delve into the sensitive issue of sexual abuse in mental health settings, such as hospitals. They discuss the ongoing Lampard Inquiry, which investigates patient deaths in Essex mental health services over a 20-year period, and highlight the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals in such environments.
Alan and Dani share insights from past cases, emphasising the difficulties survivors encounter, including issues of capacity, medication effects, and the imbalance of power between patients and staff. They also stress the importance of understanding legal rights and the role of compensation in addressing the harm caused by abuse.
Episode 268: Exploring the Al-Fayed Case – Legal Challenges and Survivors’ Rights
In this episode, Alan Collins, the head of the abuse team at Hugh James, discusses the troubling allegations against the late Mohammed Al-Fayed. Known for his ownership of Harrods and his omnipresence in the media, Al-Fayed has been accused of sexually abusing numerous women. Alan explores the similarities between Al-Fayed’s case and that of the infamous Jimmy Savile, and the potential legal avenues available for survivors seeking justice.
The discussion highlights the complexities of pursuing civil claims against deceased abusers, the principles of vicarious liability, and the challenges posed by the Limitation Act 1980. Alan underscores the importance of specialist legal representation to navigate these hurdles and ensure that survivors have a fair chance at justice.
If you are a survivor or have questions about the topics discussed, the Hugh James team is available for confidential consultations. Thank you for joining us on this latest episode of H.J. Talks About Abuse.
Episode 267: Unveiling the Allegations Against Mohammed Al-Fayed
In a recent episode of HJ Talks About Abuse, Kathleen Hallisey and Hannah Hodgson delved into the serious allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed, the former owner of Harrods. The discussion was timely, coinciding with news reports and a BBC documentary shedding light on the accusations of rape and sexual assault by Al Fayed against over 20 female ex-employees of Harrods.
Key points from the discussion include:
- Allegations: The allegations against Al Fayed are grave, involving more than 20 female ex-employees of Harrods who have come forward to pursue claims for compensation.
- Abuse of Power: The case exemplifies the abuse of power, with witnesses suggesting that Al Fayed’s actions were an open secret within Harrods, pointing to a culture of fear and silence that allowed such abuses to continue unchecked.
- Institutional Response: The discussion touched on the response by Harrods’ current owners, who expressed being appalled by the allegations and offered apologies to the victims, highlighting the complexities of addressing historical abuses within institutions.
- Legal and Social Implications: Kathleen and Hannah emphasised the importance of survivors coming forward, despite the challenges, and discussed the legal avenues available for seeking justice, including the discretion courts have in allowing cases to proceed despite time limits.
The conversation underscored the broader issue of sexual assault and abuse of power in the workplace, encouraging survivors to seek help and advice, and stressing the importance of institutional accountability in preventing and addressing such abuses.
Episode 266: The Dark Reality of Sextortion – A Global Crisis
Welcome to this episode of the H.J. Talks About Abuse podcast, where we delve into the pressing issue of sextortion, a form of online blackmail that has become a global crisis. Hosted by Danielle Vincent and her colleague Hannah Hodgson, this episode sheds light on recent cases and the devastating impact on victims.
We discuss the alarming rise of sextortion cases, including a man posing as a YouTube star and a UK-targeting gang known as the Yahoo Boys. Learn about the tactics used by these criminals, from fake identities to AI-generated images, and the severe consequences faced by victims, often leading to tragic outcomes like suicide.
Our hosts emphasise the importance of recognising the signs of sextortion and the need for support and legal action. With insights into the role of social media platforms and the efforts to combat this epidemic, this episode aims to inform and empower listeners.
If you or someone you know is affected by sextortion, it’s important to seek help immediately. Resources are available for victims to get the support they need:
- Revenge Porn Helpline
- Internet Watch Foundation (IWF)
- Contact local police
This conversation highlights the importance of awareness, education, and open dialogue in preventing online abuse. Stay safe, and always be cautious when interacting with new people online.
Episode 265: Unveiling the Church’s Safeguarding Failures – The Canon Andrew Hindley Case
This episode explores a recent news story about the Church of England’s financial settlement with Canon Andrew Hindley following unproven sexual assault allegations. Despite multiple risk assessments deeming Hindley a potential threat, no criminal convictions were made, raising serious safeguarding concerns within the Church.
The team discusses the implications of such cases on survivors, the Church’s safeguarding measures, and the broader issues faced by those affected by sexual abuse. Tune in to understand why safeguarding is crucial and how the Church’s actions may impact future disclosures.
Join us as we seek clarity on this complex case and emphasize the importance of protecting the vulnerable.
Episode 264: Understanding Abuse of Power – A Deep Dive into Workplace Dynamics
In this episode, we delve into the complex issue of abuse of power, particularly in the context of sexual abuse and harassment cases.
The discussion is sparked by recent media reports involving high-profile individuals and explores the impact of power imbalances on consent and workplace dynamics. We examine the legal definitions and implications of sexual harassment, referencing notable cases such as those involving Harvey Weinstein and Max Clifford.
The episode also addresses the new legislation on cyber flashing and the broader societal awareness needed to prevent such misconduct. Join us as we provide insights into the challenges faced by survivors and the legal avenues available for seeking justice.
Episode 263: Church of England’s Safeguarding Scandal – A Deep Dive
In this episode, Alan Collins, head of the abuse team at Hugh James, is joined by Justin Humphreys, CEO and Head of Safeguarding Development at Thirtyone:eight. They delve into a recent BBC news story concerning safeguarding issues within the Church of England, focusing on the diocese of Blackburn.
Amidst allegations and a controversial payout to a canon, Alan and Justin discuss the complexities and failures of the Church’s safeguarding processes. They explore the implications for victims and survivors, and what needs to change to restore trust and ensure robust safeguarding practices.
Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges and necessary reforms in safeguarding within religious settings.
Episode 262: The Hidden Dangers of Sharing Intimate Images
In this episode, Alan Collins and Danielle Vincent delve into the sensitive and complex topic of sharing intimate images.
They explore the legal and emotional ramifications of sharing indecent photos, with or without consent, and how such actions can have far-reaching consequences. The discussion highlights the normalization of this behaviour among young people, often exacerbated by media portrayals and peer pressure.
Alan and Danielle also touch upon the role of technology in facilitating this issue, from smartphones to social media platforms, and the challenges in protecting children from exploitation. They emphasize the importance of education and awareness in combating image-based abuse and offer insights into recent legal cases and societal trends.
Join the conversation as they provide a thought-provoking analysis on the dangers of sharing intimate images and the impact on survivors of abuse.
Episode 261: Abuse in Positions of Trust – A Deep Dive
In this episode, Alan Collins and Danielle Vincent delve into the distressing topic of abuse in positions of trust. They explore how individuals in roles such as teachers, scout leaders, and coaches can exploit their professional obligations to abuse children. The discussion includes recent legal developments, the impact on survivors, and real-life cases, including the infamous George Gibney case.
Danielle highlights the importance of understanding why children often don’t disclose abuse and how abusers infiltrate family lives to maintain control. The episode also examines the patterns of behaviour changes in abused children and the challenges in prosecuting cases, especially when the abuser is deceased.
Join us for an insightful discussion aimed at empowering survivors and shedding light on the critical issue of abuse in positions of trust.
Episode 260: The Hidden Dangers of Social Media – A Deep Dive into Online Grooming and Abuse
In this episode, Kathleen Hallisey and Hannah Hodgson from the Abuse Team discuss a recent Sky News article and a BBC series addressing the pressing issues of online grooming and sexual abuse. How the sending of one photo led an 11-year-old girl to become a victim of physical sex abuse | UK News | Sky News
The conversation centers around the alarming story of an 11-year-old girl who became a victim of online grooming, leading to physical abuse. The discussion extends to the broader implications of children using social media and the rapid spread of self-generated indecent images.
They also explore the role of education in schools and at home, the responsibilities of tech platforms, and the potential legal mechanisms to hold these platforms accountable. The episode underscores the importance of reporting such incidents and seeking support for affected individuals.
Join us for this crucial conversation about safeguarding children in the digital age.
Episode 259: Unveiling the Hidden Crisis – Staff-to-Student Sexual Abuse in Universities
Join Kathleen Hallisey, Senior Associate, and her colleague Danielle Vincent as they delve into the pressing issue of sexual abuse and misconduct on university campuses.
Inspired by a suggestion from summer placement intern Tia, Kathleen and Danielle discuss the alarming prevalence of staff-to-student sexual abuse, highlighting testimonies from universities like Exeter, Oxford, and Cambridge. They examine the power imbalances, the portrayal of such relationships in media, and the significant impact on victims’ mental health and academic careers.
Learn about the efforts of the National Union of Students and the Office for Students to combat this issue, and the importance of institutional responses in preventing and addressing abuse. Tune in for an insightful conversation on a topic that demands attention and action.
For those affected by these issues, or with suggestions for future discussions, please reach out to the Hugh James Abuse Team. Your voice matters.
Episode 258: Silent Suffering – Sexual Abuse in Mental Health Facilities and Legal Support for Survivors
In this episode, brought to you by the abuse team at Hugh James, delves into the alarming reports of sexual abuse faced by mental health patients in UK hospitals.
Hosts Alan Collins and Kathleen Hallisey explore recent media coverage revealing that up to 20,000 incidents of sexual abuse have been reported in NHS mental health trusts over the past five years. They discuss the vulnerabilities of inpatients, the role of hospital staff, and the complexities of addressing these disturbing allegations.
The episode also examines Mayor Sadiq Khan’s announcement of free legal advice for sexual assault victims in London. While the initiative aims to combat violence against women and girls, the hosts question its effectiveness and the need for better support and reporting mechanisms.
Join the conversation as we uncover the challenges faced by survivors and the steps needed to ensure justice and safety in mental health facilities.
Episode 257: Justice Beyond Conviction: A Survivor’s Victory in Civil Court
In this episode, Danielle and Hannah discuss a recent media-highlighted case where a woman sued her therapist for sexual assault and was awarded over £200,000 in damages by the High Court. Despite the lack of a criminal conviction, this case underscores the possibility of pursuing civil claims for justice. The survivor’s journey, spanning over eight years, is a testament to resilience and the importance of seeking justice beyond the criminal courts.
This episode sheds light on the different standards of proof in criminal and civil cases and encourages survivors who haven’t seen success in criminal courts to consider civil claims. The discussion also emphasises the importance of public awareness and support for survivors who bravely share their stories to help others.
We hope this episode provides valuable insights and encourages anyone affected by similar issues to seek advice and explore their options. Stay tuned as we follow the developments in this case and continue to support survivors seeking justice.
Episode 256: Government Proposals to Ease Civil Claims for Child Sex Abuse Victims
In this episode, Alan Collins, the head of the abuse team, explores the UK Conservative government’s proposals to make it easier for child sex abuse victims to bring civil claims. These proposals are designed to reduce the trauma survivors face during legal proceedings.
The episode delves into the intricacies of the Limitation Act 1980, which currently requires claims to be made within three years of a victim turning 18. Alan discusses the challenges posed by this limitation, especially for survivors who come forward many years after the abuse.
Alan examines the government’s press release from May 15, 2024, which outlines a consultation on reversing the burden of proof. This change would place the onus on defendants to prove that a fair trial is not possible, rather than on victims to prove their case within the specified time frame.
The episode also compares reforms in other jurisdictions, such as Australia and Scotland, and discusses the potential impact of these changes on the justice system. Alan emphasises the importance of participating in the consultation process to ensure that the reforms are effective and fair to survivors.
Tune in to understand the proposed changes, their implications for survivors, and the importance of legal reform in achieving justice for child sex abuse victims.
Episode 255: Election Promises and Child Abuse: A Critical Review
In this episode, Alan dives into the manifestos of the Labour Party, the Conservative Party, and the Liberal Democrats to examine what they have to say about child abuse and related issues. Alan provides a non-partisan analysis, focusing on key topics such as mandatory reporting laws, justice for victims, and proposed redress schemes.
Alan discusses the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (ICSA) recommendations and how each party addresses—or fails to address—them. He highlights the importance of mandatory reporting and the need for accountability in the justice system. The episode also touches on the complex nature of handling rape cases and the necessity for timely justice.
Join Alan as he navigates through these political manifestos, offering insights and critiques that are crucial for survivors of sexual abuse and those advocating for their rights. Whether you are a regular listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode aims to inform and empower.
Episode 254: A Journey from Volunteer to Director – Zoe Bell’s Story at East Kent Rape Crisis Centre
In this episode, Danielle Vincent is joined by Zoe Bell, Director of East Kent Rape Crisis Centre. Zoe shares her inspiring journey from a volunteer helpline worker to director of the center, highlighting the impactful work being done to support survivors of sexual abuse. They discuss the center’s innovative therapeutic approaches, such as walk and talk therapy and side by side therapy, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for survivors.
Zoe also talks about the Kickback Group, a survivor-led initiative providing invaluable feedback to shape the services offered at the center. Additionally, she shares her experience of being invited to Buckingham Palace in recognition of her work in the sexual violence sector.
For those in need of support or more information about the services offered by East Kent Rape Crisis Centre, Danielle provides details on how to get in touch and access resources. Tune in to hear more about the incredible work being done to support survivors and the importance of having their voices heard.
If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please visit our website or contact us directly. Thank you for listening.
Episode 253: Female Teacher’s Abuse – Unpacking the Case of Rebecca Joynes
In this week’s episode, Alan Collins and his colleagues Kathleen Hallisey, Danielle Vincent, and Hannah Hodgson discuss the distressing case of Rebecca Joynes, a female schoolteacher recently convicted of sexual offences against two 15-year-old schoolboys.
Join us as we delve into the details of the case, exploring the legal and broader issues faced by survivors of sexual abuse. Hannah provides a background on the incidents, including how Joynes groomed her victims and the subsequent legal actions taken against her.
The team also examines public reactions to the case, highlighting the disparities in how male and female abusers are perceived and the significant impact such abuse has on the victims’ lives. This episode aims to shed light on the complex dynamics of abuse and the importance of understanding and addressing these issues.
We hope this discussion is both informative and empowering, especially for survivors of sexual abuse. Tune in to learn more about this case and the broader implications of abuse by those in positions of trust.
Episode 252: Unveiling the Dark Side – The Case of the Disgraced Vicar
In this episode, Alan Collins, the head of the abuse team, along with his colleagues Kathleen Hallisey and Hannah Hodgson, delve into the unsettling case of Reverend Julian Wheeler, a former Church of England clergyman recently convicted of sexually abusing two altar boys.
We discuss the legal concept of vicarious liability and its implications for organisations in cases of abuse. This episode highlights how the misuse of power by individuals in positions of authority, such as priests, can lead to severe consequences for victims. We also explore the broader issues faced by survivors, including the impact of mandatory reporting and the complex dynamics within faith communities that can hinder justice.
Join us as we examine the importance of safeguarding, the challenges of mandatory reporting, and the profound need for support and empowerment for survivors of clergy abuse. We hope this discussion not only informs but also encourages those affected to come forward and seek help.
Episode 251: A necessary dialogue – Abuse in the navy
In this insightful episode of the HJ Talks About Abuse podcast, the host Alan Collins, partner at Hugh James, and his colleague Danielle Vincent come together to discuss the pressing issue of sexual abuse allegations within the Royal Navy. This frank dialogue is sparked by recent media coverage around a whistleblower, Sophie Brook, a former Royal Navy submarine naval officer, who courageously brought to light the inadequate handling of her own sexual abuse allegations.
Alan and Danielle explore the unique dynamics within military institutions, struggling to differentiate between initiations and inappropriate, harmful behavior. They delve into the complex world of the armed forces, a historically male-dominated environment, and the challenges that survivors of sexual abuse face in this context. The hosts underscore the need for transparency and independent report handling in the armed forces. Furthermore, they highlight the negative implications these issues could have on recruitment and the lives of promising service people.
Join Alan and Danielle as they examine the closed world of the military, highlighting experiences that have led to significant change, and call for greater action to ensure the safety and dignity of all service people.
Episode 250: Northern Ireland Redress Scheme Closing 2 April 2025
In this episode of the HJ Talks About Abuse podcast, the hosts, Alan Collins and Danielle Vincent discuss the Northern Ireland redress scheme. This scheme was established as compensation for adults who suffered abuse while they were children in the care system in Northern Ireland between 1922 and 1995. The scheme was initiated by the UK parliament on the basis of several recommendations. The Redress Board in Northern Ireland administers this compensation scheme.
Danielle and Alan delve into why they decided to discuss the Northern Ireland redress scheme in this podcast episode. They share their experiences working on the scheme for almost two years, emphasising on the significant settlements they achieved for their clients. Danielle illustrates how these cases often involve large families, shedding light on the pervasiveness of abuse in the care system.
They stress on the importance of awareness around such schemes. Alan points out that several individuals eligible for these schemes often miss out due to lack of knowledge about them. They urge organisations working with abuse survivors to be well-informed about these schemes to inform those who could potentially apply. The conversations emphasise the need for wider publicity, education, and training for the success of such schemes.
The hosts also share their experiences working on redress schemes globally, including the Jersey, Lambeth and in Australia. They explain how such schemes often offer survivors more accessible justice compared to court proceedings. In the concluding segment, they highlight that the deadline for the Northern Ireland redress scheme is approaching, advocating for survivors, or their family members to apply if eligible.
The hosts encourage listeners to contact them should they have any questions about the podcast or need assistance applying to the scheme.
