Sex abuse victims ‘all over the country’ as scale of scandal increases

pleaded guilty to 23 specimen charges — dating from 1978 to 1992 — at Chester Crown Court and was jailed for nine years. Another 22 offences were left to lie on file. In May last year, he was jailed again for two years for sexual offences committed against a 12-year-old boy in 1980. He is currently out on licence. Meanwhile, the SFA yesterday announced they had joined forces with the players’ union, PFA Scotland, to launch a dedicated hotline for potential victims of abuse, in conjunction with the NSPCC. Matt Forde, NSPCC Scotland national head of service said: ‘There must be no hiding place for sexual abuse in football and many adults may have suffered such horrors as young players but have never come forward. ‘As this week’s revelations have shown, people must be able to speak out and get the help they need and that can often be more difficult for men and boys. ‘We welcome the commitment of the SFA and PFA Scotland to help those in the game get the support they need.’ Donna Martin, SFA Child Wellbeing and Protection Manager, added: ‘The SFA takes its role as the governing body of the national game seriously. We would urge anyone with any information relating to abuse or inappropriate behaviour — whether current or historic — to get in touch via the NSPCC’s helpline, or childrenswellbeing@ scottishfa.co.uk.’ Fraser Wishart, PFA Scotland chief executive, said: ‘It would be naïve to think these allegations are unique to one part of the UK and, mindful of our responsibilities, we are pleased to be working with the SFA to help create a safe environment for any player or former player — regardless of their level of participation — to come forward.’