Parents to take legal action against council and charity over abuse of disabled children

Daniel Clarke, who is in prison after pleading guilty to offences against six boys, is believed to have met his victims through Solo and Forest Oak school, which is run by the local authority.

According to the BBC, Clarke is suspected by detectives to have targeted more than 81 young people.

As well as his work with the charity, Clarke worked as a personal assistant to some young people, arranging off-site outings, overnight stays, and after-school activities.

Wolverhampton Crown Court heard he covertly filmed children using hidden cameras on some of these trips.

In light of the court’s findings, four parents have instructed lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to look into civil claims for damages against Solihull Council and Social Life Opportunities.

Tom Fletcher, Head of Abuse at Irwin Mitchell said: "This is a deeply disturbing case which has seen an individual systematically abuse his position of trust in the most abhorrent way.

“While Clarke is now thankfully behind bars, the effects of his crimes continue to live on with those children and families he targeted.

“[...] We’re now being contacted by a growing group of families to investigate civil claims for damages. Nothing can ever make up for the abuse their children have suffered but we’re determined to at least help them access the specialist support they require to try and come to terms with what happened the best they can.

“As investigations continue into Clarke, we’d urge parents and children not to suffer in silence and report abuse to the authorities. That way the true scale of Clarke’s crimes can be known and measures taken to ensure better safeguarding practices are put in place to try and prevent this from happening again.”

The council confirmed it has received a letter of notification, which has been passed to its legal advisors. However, it did not offer further comment.

A spokesperson for Solo said: "As there is an active and ongoing police investigation, Solo is unable to comment on any matters relating to the individual or the investigation.

"We are fully cooperating with law enforcement and statutory authorities. Out of respect for the legal process and the privacy of all parties involved, we will not be making further statements at this time, except in cooperation with the relevant authorities."

Lottie Winson