NHS Child Abuse Investigation Uncovers More Alleged Victims

Authorities investigating historical allegations of child abuse at two former NHS mental health facilities in West Sussex have reported speaking to twelve individuals who claim to be victims, with indications that more may exist.

One former patient, who was just nine years old at the time, recounted harrowing experiences of repeated sexual assault by a staff member at Larchwood and Colwood in Haywards Heath. Using the pseudonym Christopher, he described the initial incident occurring in the late 1970s, when the staff member enticed him outdoors to gather flowers for his mother.

Christopher vividly recalls the traumatic event that unfolded in the woods, stating, “That was the daffodil day – it’s always stuck with me.” He shared painful memories of being raped, explaining, “I was crying, saying please stop, please stop, you’re hurting me – really so painful, nothing I’ve experienced like that. Just fear.”

Investigation Details

Sussex Police are focusing their inquiry on allegations brought forth by former residents of the two NHS establishments during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, both of which ceased operation by the early 2000s. Larchwood primarily catered to younger children, while Colwood housed adolescents.

Christopher disclosed that his parents sent him to Larchwood in the late 1970s after he exhibited disruptive behavior at home, stopped attending school, and attempted suicide. In a candid interview, he detailed instances of repeated sexual abuse by a male staff member, who manipulated him under the pretext of gathering flowers.

Further Allegations and Insights

Others have come forward, asserting they were also victims at Larchwood or Colwood during the same era, claiming staff abuse. One former nurse, using the name Linda, worked at Colwood in the late 1990s and portrayed a dismal picture of care, highlighting neglect and physical maltreatment.

Linda recalled an incident involving a severely troubled young girl who was left unattended, stating, “There was a really poorly girl who was really psychotic who was just standing outside in a really bad way waiting for me to get there to help her.” She also described a shocking moment where a staff member allegedly threw a fragile patient across the room.

Authorities have identified several potential suspects, none of whom currently hold positions of trust or pose an ongoing threat to the community. So far, two men in their 60s and 70s have been interviewed, but no formal arrests have occurred.

Call for Justice

Detective Inspector Cheryl Lewendon stated that while twelve victims have been interviewed, they believe many more may have information relevant to the case. “We want to speak to as many people who were present during those times that would have some information that would help us try and identify those suspects in terms of allegations that have been made,” she said.

Reflecting on past investigations, she acknowledged shortcomings in how allegations were handled, admitting, “We didn’t do the right thing back then, allegations were made and investigated in silo.”

The two facilities were operated by NHS organizations that predate the current NHS Trust. A spokesperson for Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, which now oversees child and adolescent mental health services in the area, affirmed their cooperation with the ongoing police investigation.

They expressed empathy for those coming forward with their experiences, stating, “We acknowledge how difficult it must be for people to come forward to share their experiences of abuse and our thoughts are with them.” The spokesperson encouraged anyone who has faced abuse to reach out to Sussex Police.

In June, Sussex Police made a public appeal for information regarding the case. Christopher, along with other alleged victims, has demanded a formal apology from the NHS for their experiences.