It is reported in the West Australian newspaper (thewest.com.au) that clergy abuse victims  seeking redress for the harm they have suffered are protesting by way of a vigil outside Melbourne’s catholic cathedral. They want the “church” the report says to enter into dialogue: “Victim’s groups are united in their resolve to hold restorative discussions and conferences with the Melbourne Catholic hierarchy to this end”.

The vigil coincides with the Pope’s visit to Australia for “World Youth Day”. As discussed in a previous blog article the Pope is supposedly intent in repairing the enormous damage caused by clergy abuse, but how in reality this is to be brought about remains to be seen. In my experience victims are still confronted with closed doors and tightly bolted ones at that.

I am of the opinion that there is much to be said for victim power. It takes in my view a certain bravery to go public and protest, and by doing so it makes it much for difficult for the powers that be to ignore the victims’ claims, which in my experience is often the usual response. As that classic song goes: “the people have the power“.

Alan Collins

02392 492472

We have just settled all nineteen claims brought by former residents of the Children’s Cottages Homes. This was an institution owned and run by the former Portsmouth Corporation at Cosham. It housed children of all ages who were essentially homeless because of bereavement, illness, marital breakdown, and quite often because the parents could not cope with their large families.

The nineteen claimed that they had been abused whilst in care. The period covered the 1940’s to 1960’s, and the allegations were concerned with emotional, physical and sexual abuse.

As part of my investiagation in to the allegations of abuse at Haut de la Garenne I am trying to understand how the staff who were employed there in the 1970’s were trained (if at all). If you know or have information please contact me and this can be in confidence if you wish.

Alan Collins

02392492472

My enquiries and investigations continue. Togther with my colleague Mark Temple at Ozannes, we have interviewed and taken instructions from residents and witnesses spanning the 1940’s to the 1980’s. If you would like to speak to us please get in touch.

Alan Collins

02392492472

If you were at Brownlows Children’s Home as a resident or worked there in the 1970’s could you please contact me in confidence.

Alan Collins

02392492472

Latest developments

I thought that I would comment on the latest developments in the Haut de la Garenne case given the recent publicity concerning the forensic investigation.

In some sections of the media doubt was being cast over the significance of the human remains that had been found, or not as was being suggested. I think it important that it is remembered that the home had been up running for over a century and would have had through its doors over the years hundreds of children. Like any institution of its ilk it will have its fair share of secrets both good and bad, and they are now being unearthed in every sense.

From the enquiries I have made, so far, it seems abundantly clear to me that secrecy was endemic at Haut de la Garenne, which would provide a cloak to mask any wrongdoing. We also know from other children home cases that such institutions provide unfortunately ideal conditions for those ill-disposed towards children.

I have now interviewed a number of witnesses in Australia as well as closer to home and they have provided supportive evidence in respect of the allegations of abuse that have been made in respect of Haut de la Garenne.

Alan Collins

02392492472

I was interviewed by Tasmanina daily newspaper Mercury on 25th May concerning Haut de la Garenne and the investigations that are taking place, and gave my opinion on where the case is going.

There is considerable interest throughout Australia. Many Channel Islanders have made new lives for themselves througout the country and, unsuprisingly, follow the latest developments with interest.

Alan Collins

I see reported in the media and, perhaps, deliberately timed to coincide with Liberation Day what could be interpreted as attempts (?) being made to downplay the Haut de la Garenne abuse allegations. This comes as no great surprise because in my experience there are always those who out of ignorance and/or fear who refuse to accept the reality of child abuse.

A common refrain is to question why the victims did not report the abuse at the the time. This is, perhaps, the stupidest and at the same time the most of unempthatic of questions, and when put to me, I point out, in answer who exactly was the child suppose to to report to? Moreover when the questioner is asked what would they have done had they been abused he/she usually has no answer, and duly tries to change the subject.

Another line is to say that the victims should not dwell on the past, but it is all very well for the non-abused to say that. A serious wrong can never be put right simply by ignoring it, and why should a victim be deprived of justice because their raising their plight is inconvenient?

In my experience any attempt to downplay the tragedy of Haut de la Garenne will only serve to invigorate those who are now seeking justice for the abuse suffered.

Alan Collins

I have taken part in a number of radio interviews which will be syndicated throught out Australia in advance of my arrival there next month when I will be talking to victims and witnesses.

If you would like to speak with me please get in touch.

My telephone number is 023 92 492472

e-mail: alc@dyerburdett.com

Alan Collins

I am investigating allegations of sexual abuse at St. Anthony’s Prepartory School which was owned and run by the Order of Friars Minor.

The allegations go back to the 1960’s, with the abuse primarily being committed in dormitories.

I have settled two claims, and am now working on a third, and so if you have information please contact me.

Alan Collins

02392492472