Police appeal to Wakefield scouts following allegations of childhood abuse in 1960s

West Yorkshire Police have appealed for members of scout groups in Wakefield in the 1960s to come forward with any information they may have in relation to allegations of child abuse.

A spokesperson for West Yorkshire Police has said “A man has been interviewed in connection with an alleged offence in Pontefract and it is believed there are other victims. If you believe you can assist with this investigation then please contact Wakefield District Child Safeguarding Unit on 101 or use the livechat facility on the West Yorkshire Police Website. The crime reference is 13230302829. Information can also be reported anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.”

It is now well recognised that child abuse can have a devastating impact on a person’s life, and it often takes survivors many years to reach a point in their lives where they feel able to disclose the abuse they suffered. It is therefore not surprising that police believe this man could also have abused others. My hope is that the police’s appeal will provide other survivors with the courage and strength to contact them, so that justice can be served.

If this man is convicted of offences against these former scouts, they may also wish to pursue a claim for compensation through the civil courts against the man himself and / or the Scout Association.