High Court Awards Damages for Historical Sexual Abuse by Gary Glitter

Introduction

The High Court has awarded substantial damages to the claimant, BRS, in a case against Paul Francis Gadd, better known by his stage name 'Gary Glitter', for sexual abuse perpetrated in 1977 when the claimant was 12 years old.

Background

The claimant sought compensation for sexual abuse by the defendant, a famous rock singer, for which he was convicted in 2015. The abuse occurred over several months in 1977 and resulted in severe psychological injury and long-term impact on the claimant's life.

Proceedings

The case was issued in May 2022, and judgment in default was obtained in November 2022 after the defendant failed to acknowledge service. The trial to assess damages was initially adjourned but proceeded in March 2024 in the defendant's absence.

Claimant's Evidence

The claimant provided a detailed witness statement corroborated by expert psychological evidence. The court accepted the claimant's account of the abuse and its profound impact on her education, career, and personal life.

Expert Evidence

Dr. Sue O'Rourke, a consultant clinical psychologist, diagnosed the claimant with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) and Recurrent Depressive Disorder, attributing these conditions primarily to the abuse suffered.

Judicial College Guidelines

The court referred to the Judicial College Guidelines for assessing damages in cases of sexual and physical abuse, considering factors such as the nature and duration of the abuse, psychological injury, and impact on the claimant's life.

Assessment of Damages

The court awarded £100,000 in general damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity, and £20,000 for injury to feelings. Special damages included £381,000 for loss of earnings and £7,800 for future therapy, totaling £508,800.

Conclusion

The judgment underscores the severe and lasting impact of historical sexual abuse and provides a detailed framework for assessing damages in such cases. The court's decision reflects the seriousness of the abuse and the profound consequences for the claimant's life.