Personal Injury

The allegations of child sexual abuse against Major Colin Haggar, a senior officer in the Salvation Army, have brought to light significant failures in institutional accountability. Major Haggar’s involvement with the Salvation Army—a well-known Christian organisation with a history of caring for vulnerable populations—has raised serious concerns about protecting children in its care. For many survivors of abuse, the emotional and psychological toll of such trauma can last a lifetime. However, stepping forward and seeking justice through compensation can be an essential step in the healing process.

At Koffels Solicitors and Barristers, we are committed to helping survivors of institutional child sexual abuse, including those who suffered at the hands of predators like Major Haggar, to find closure and financial compensation. If you or someone you know has been affected by these incidents, we encourage you to contact us for a confidential consultation.

Who Is Major Colin Haggar?

Major Colin Haggar was a senior officer in the Salvation Army, an international Christian organisation known for its charitable work, especially among vulnerable groups such as children and the homeless. Haggar worked within the Salvation Army’s network, often close to children and young people under the organisation’s care. This proximity, coupled with his position of trust, made the allegations of sexual abuse all the more shocking and damaging.

The allegations against Haggar span several years, during which he is accused of sexually abusing minors. Despite these claims, the Salvation Army allowed him to remain in positions of authority, a move that has since come under intense public and legal scrutiny.

The Allegations of Child Sexual Abuse

The most disturbing aspect of the allegations against Major Haggar is not only the abuse itself but also the institution’s handling of the accusations. Haggar was accused of sexually abusing minors in various locations where he worked, and some survivors have come forward with accounts of repeated abuse over several years.

According to testimonies and evidence presented during the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, the Salvation Army failed to act decisively when these allegations first emerged. Instead of immediately removing Haggar from positions of power, he was allowed to continue working in roles that placed him in contact with children, further endangering those in his care.

Survivors of Haggar’s abuse have shared stories of the severe emotional and psychological damage inflicted upon them. The abuse often left victims struggling with trust, mental health issues, and difficulties in building stable relationships later in life. The courage shown by these survivors in coming forward during the Royal Commission has highlighted the need for more robust protections and accountability measures within institutions such as the Salvation Army.

The Salvation Army’s Response

The Salvation Army has since publicly acknowledged its failures in handling the allegations against Major Haggar. As part of the broader revelations from the Royal Commission, the Salvation Army admitted that its internal processes for dealing with allegations of child sexual abuse were deeply flawed.

This admission came after years of public and legal pressure, during which survivors and their families demanded justice. The Salvation Army has made several reforms to its child protection policies, although for many survivors, these changes came too late. Apologies, while important, cannot undo the damage caused by years of abuse and institutional neglect.

Institutions and Groups Involved

The allegations against Major Colin Haggar are directly tied to the Salvation Army’s various programs and facilities, particularly those involving children’s homes, outreach programs, and youth services. At the time of his offences, Haggar worked in multiple locations where he had direct access to children and young people.

The specific locations where the abuse occurred are not always publicly disclosed due to privacy concerns and legal restrictions. However, survivors who suffered abuse under Haggar’s care have been able to come forward through legal means to share their stories and seek compensation.

The Path to Justice: How Koffels Solicitors and Barristers Can Help

If you are a survivor of abuse at the hands of Major Colin Haggar or any other individual within an institution like the Salvation Army, you are not alone. While the trauma of abuse is deeply personal, seeking justice and compensation can be a crucial part of your recovery journey.

At Koffels Solicitors and Barristers, we specialise in historical institutional child sexual abuse claims, helping survivors to navigate the complexities of legal action against the institutions responsible for their suffering. Our firm has a proven track record in representing victims of institutional abuse, securing compensation that recognises the lifelong impact of the trauma they endured.

Why Seek Legal Representation?

• Compensation: Survivors of child sexual abuse may be entitled to significant financial compensation, which can help cover costs related to medical treatment, psychological support, and other expenses.
• Accountability: Taking legal action is one way to hold individuals and institutions accountable for their failure to protect vulnerable children.
• Support and Closure: While no amount of money can undo the trauma, securing compensation can help survivors feel validated in their experiences and supported in their recovery journey.

Confidentiality and Compassionate Legal Support

At Koffels Solicitors and Barristers, we understand that coming forward can be difficult, especially for survivors who have carried the burden of abuse for many years. We offer confidential, compassionate, and supportive legal advice to all our clients, ensuring that their privacy is respected and that they are empowered to make informed decisions about their cases.

If you or a loved one has experienced abuse connected to Major Colin Haggar or any other individual in a position of trust, we urge you to contact us. We are here to listen, support, and help you pursue the justice you deserve.

Contact Us Today

We offer obligation-free consultations to discuss your potential claim and how we can assist you in seeking compensation. To take the first step towards justice, contact Koffels Solicitors and Barristers at +612 9283 5599 or complete the call-back form below for a free and confidential discussion with one of our historical abuse specialists.

Together, we can help survivors find their voice, seek justice, and take back control of their lives.