Medomsley Detention Centre Compensation Scheme for abuse victims

The Medomsley Detention Centre Compensation Scheme (Ministry of Justice) was introduced to compensate detainees who suffered physical abuse by the officers and staff members who worked there.

Medomsley Detention Centre was a youth detention centre in Consett, County Durham which was open from between 1961 to 1987 and operated the “short, sharp shock regime”. Detainees were subjected to brutal and indiscriminate violence from Officers and staff members.

Operation Seabrook was launched by the Durham Constabulary in 2013 to investigate allegations of abuse from former detainees of Medomsley Detention Centre. This is the largest investigation of its kind. It is understood that nearly 2000 men have come forward to report their allegations of the abuse they suffered.

The settlement scheme is designed to compensate victims of abuse at Medomsley Detention Centre without the need to go through complex legal proceedings. This will provide certainty that former detainees will receive compensation for the physical assaults they suffered during their time there.

Qualification for the scheme is based on a set of agreed criteria. The men must be able to prove their period of detention by reference to their PNC records and state that they suffered physical abuse during the period that they were detained.

Compensation will be assessed in accordance with the length of time that they were detained and whether they have suffered lasting physical and psychological injuries. The Claimant will also receive a letter of apology from the Ministry of Justice.

Jordans Solicitors also obtain compensation for men who suffered sexual abuse by Officers and staff members during their period of detention. In the early 2000’s two former Officers Neville Husband and Leslie Johnson were found guilty of sexual offences against detainees in early 2000. Both men are now deceased. Ian Nicholson has also been charged with 3 counts of serious sexual abuse and 1 count of indecent assault.

Start your Medomsley Detention Centre compensation claim

Jordans Solicitors represent approximately 200 clients who have suffered physical abuse. We have a dedicated team of highly specialist solicitors who can ensure that your claim is handled sensitively.

If you were detained at Medomsley Detention Centre and suffered physical abuse we would urge you to contact our team on 01642 034134