Legal action over sexual abuse claims taken against Scottish Football Association

Patrick McGuire

Correspondence has today been sent to the association containing details of the civil claims.

Thompsons Solicitors’ partner Patrick McGuire said: “As the body in charge of Scottish football at all levels the SFA is responsible for the welfare of children taking part in our game. They are trusted by parents to make sure that coaches and officials at club and association level are fit and proper people to care for their children.

“It is to the SFA’s complete and utter shame that due to their incompetence and at times wilful disregard criminals of the worst kind preyed on youngsters who only wanted to play football.

“The legal action for compensation that my firm is undertaking on behalf of our clients is part of the process of seeking justice and it’s one that I expect the SFA to take very seriously and settle promptly.”

Janine Rennie chief executive of the charity Wellbeing Scotland added: “The beginning of civil legal proceedings against the Scottish Football Association by survivors is their absolute right and is an important part of them claiming some measure justice they have long been denied. Restitution of this kind is a small part of the journey for these brave people.

“They were disbelieved and ignored by the authorities for years but they are taking back control and now the SFA have admitted their terrible failings I hope they will deal with this matter with decency and transparency.”