6 years – almost 7 – have passed since the #MeToo movement began in the US. It has since become a global phenomenon, sparking conversation about sexual harassment and abuse.
In 2017, actress Alyssa Milano tweeted ‘#MeToo’ when Harvey Weinstein was accused of sexual assault and encouraged others who had been sexually harassed or assaulted to do the same. Since then, more than 80 women have come forward with accusations of sexual assault against Harvey Weinstein. 5 years later, he has been found guilty in his second sex crimes trial.
For many, #MeToo has become shorthand for solidarity with victims who have faced their abusers. It has encouraged and given the strength to others to do the same.
Since conversations began, many people have developed a better understanding of what constitutes sexual abuse. People have reframed their past experiences after hearing about others’ experiences, identifying themselves as survivors and not just victims of abuse.
The #MeToo movement has clearly had an impact on society and how many of us view and deal with issues of sexual assault, abuse and violence. It is evident, in this way, how much speaking out about your experiences can help create change, and contribute to a wider movement to try and stop these things from happening.
As a result of the increasing awareness around these issues, we’ve noticed an increase in the number of victims of abuse coming forward and getting in touch with us to discuss the possibility of claiming compensation for the abuse and mental health issues they suffered as a result of it.
At Simpson Millar, we have a team of specialists who are experts in dealing with abuse claims. We understand how difficult it is to talk about these things and to go back to these memories, which is why we’ll always go at your pace when it comes to building a claim.
Our friendly and approachable team of Solicitors can help you work on and build a solid claim for compensation, with the evidence and paperwork you’ll need. In addition, we’ll always strive to keep you in the know about what’s going on with your case and what the latest updates are, so you’re never left stressed out and in the dark about the progress of your claim.
We're rated‘Excellent’The #MeToo movement has created a ripple effect, prompting organisations and industries to address sexual harassment and abuse across the UK:
Where there is power, there is the potential for abuse of power. The many manifestations of the #MeToo movement demonstrate that people have come together globally to prevent others from experiencing sexual assault and to combat people in power silencing survivors.
Many people used to be afraid of speaking up against sexual abusers due to this power imbalance. Especially in the context of the #MeToo movement, a lot of these victims would have suffered the abuse or misconduct in the workplace, which means they could have been worried about losing their jobs as a result of coming forward and speaking out about the abuse or misconduct.
However, in the wake of the #MeToo movement, more and more people are speaking up.
Whether or not people choose to report sexual assault, the #MeToo movement has given a platform for voices to be heard.
At Simpson Millar, our Abuse Solicitors are here to support by pursuing claims against individuals, public bodies, and local authorities on behalf of survivors of abuse.
Our team of expert Child Abuse Solicitors would be interested to speak with survivors of abuse at Aston Hall Hospital in Derbyshire, as former patients are now claiming compensation from the Department of Health.
Robert Rixon of Porthcawl abused girls as young as 11 at a swimming and lifeguarding club he ran at a local school. He’s now been sentenced to 25 years in prison after being charged with 29 counts of sexual assault.
The article guides abuse survivors on making claims against individuals or institutions. It explains suing individual abusers depends on their financial capability. Institutional claims involve proving vicarious liability, where the institution is responsible for the abuser’s actions. It also covers claims for negligence or failure to protect from harm, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme, and various redress schemes. Simpson Millar’s solicitors provide compassionate, expert advice throughout the legal process.
#MeToo Movement. (n.d.). Me Too Movement. Retrieved from https://metoomvmt.org/
Global Fund for Women. (n.d.). #MeToo Movement. Retrieved from https://www.globalfundforwomen.org/movements/me-too/
Corbett, H. (2023, November 16). The #MeToo Movement Six Years Later: What's Changed and What's Next. Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/hollycorbett/2023/11/16/the-metoo-movement-six-years-later-whats-changed-and-whats-next/
Elinor works as a Paralegal within Simpson Millar's Abuse Claims team. Elinor gained experience managing Employment Tribunal claims but being moved by a desire to support abuse survivors, she shifted her focus and quickly became a key member of our Abuse team. In her role, working closely with Solicitor, Hywel Thomas,
Elinor assists on claims against public bodies including councils, schools, religious and charitable organisations, social services and claims directly against individuals. She also handles claims for the Criminal Injury Compensation Authority (CICA), supporting those who've been victims of a violent crime.
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