Individual receives five-figure compensation from Celtic regarding past abuse claims.
A man who initiated legal proceedings regarding claims of historical abuse at Celtic Boys Club has received a five-figure settlement from Celtic, according to his legal representatives.
The individual, now in his 50s, expressed that he feels he has “finally been heard” following the resolution of the case.
Digby Brown Solicitors filed the lawsuit at the Court of Session in Edinburgh on behalf of the man in February, and an out-of-court settlement was achieved this month.
This development follows Celtic’s apology last year for past sexual abuse at Celtic Boys Club, which came after a seven-figure settlement in a collective legal action.
The man, who remains unnamed for legal reasons, stated: “When people think of abuse, they often envision a single incident or believe that it occurred so long ago that one should simply move on, but it is not like recovering from an injury — you cannot just carry on until you heal.”
“While abusive acts may be physical, the effects, for me, are predominantly psychological, and the most challenging aspect is the overwhelming sense of shame that I have been grappling with for nearly 40 years.”
“It is a perplexing, confusing, and frustrating experience — you understand that what transpired was not your fault, yet simultaneously, you feel accountable for it… Then you become angry with yourself for allowing it to impact you.”
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He continued: “Reaching this point has been difficult, but I take pride in not giving up, and I strongly encourage others to maintain hope for their own pursuit of justice.”
Richard Pitts, a partner at Digby Brown and an expert in historic abuse claims, spearheaded the legal proceedings.
He remarked: “Successful legal outcomes can be a double-edged sword because, while we take pride in our client and our achievements together, there is always an awareness of the reasons we are engaged in this battle in the first place.”
“I am immensely proud of my client for all he has accomplished — he exemplifies what perseverance can achieve, and I hope this resolution enables him to look forward with a more optimistic perspective.”
Celtic has been approached for a statement.
Thompsons Solicitors represented approximately 30 former players of Celtic Boys Club in the collective action against Celtic Plc, which concluded last year.
The case pertained to abuse at the youth club, which was not officially linked to Celtic, perpetrated by convicted offenders James Torbett and Frank Cairney.
