Call for witnesses over alleged abuse at Barrow Hills School in 1970s

The allegations relate to the conduct of Charles Johnson, who was previously convicted of abuse in 2017, and Paul Waters, who were teachers at the school and have since died.

The alleged abuse is understood to have taken place over a number of years and may have impacted multiple people who were school pupils at the time. 

It is believed that there are other individuals who attended Barrow Hills during the 1970s who may have witnessed or experienced abuse, or could be aware of important information that could assist with ongoing investigations. 

Leigh Day abuse team partner Dino Nocivelli is investigating the allegations, and would like to speak with former pupils and staff who may have more information about the reported conduct of Johnson and Waters. 

Dino Nocivelli said: 

“We have been contacted by an individual who has reported highly concerning allegations of sexual abuse by Charles Johnson and Paul Waters during their time as teachers at Barrow Hills School in the 1970s.  

“We are now looking to hear from others who may have witnessed or experienced similar abuse from the two teachers, as any information could be important in helping with our investigations. Any conversations will be treated with strict confidentiality.”  

Anyone who believes they may have relevant information is asked to contact Dino Nocivelli and his team on dnocivelli@leighday.co.uk or 020 7650 1397.