Taunton Scout leader Matt Ellet has been convicted of sexual offences against children.
Former Taunton Scout leader Matt Ellett has been convicted at Taunton Crown Court of a range of sexual offences against children. Ellett, a trusted member of the leadership of West Monkton Scouts in Somerset, used his position to groom and abuse children.
He has been found guilty of 19 sexual offences against a number of victims, all of whom were children. He denied the allegations, but the jury believed his victims, and he was found guilty of all the charges against him.
Partner and specialist abuse lawyer Elizabeth Duncan closely followed the case. She has acted for many survivors of sexual abuse perpetrated by Scout leaders. You can read about some of the cases she has successfully resolved here:
- Out of court settlement in Scout abuse claim
- Scout Association ordered to pay compensation for historical sexual abuse
The Scouting movement has unfortunately been marred by abuse. What should be a safe space for children to learn new skills, make friends, and experience the great outdoors has been exploited and manipulated by a handful of sexual predators who have used their position for their own ends.
While a criminal conviction is a hugely important step and provides a measure of accountability, survivors are often still left with the burden of what happened to them and its impact on their health and happiness. Often they require specialist treatment to help them deal with what they have been through. Their relationships, education, functioning, and ability to work may have been affected.
It is therefore important for survivors to know that there may also be options to pursue compensation. Civil claims are separate from criminal proceedings and can often still be pursued even where abuse took place many years ago. Survivors may have potential claims not only against the perpetrator but, in some circumstances, against organisations that were responsible for them, including youth organisations and other institutions. Where a Scout leader was using his position to abuse Scouts in his care, the Scout Association may be vicariously liable for the conduct, and a claim may be brought against it.
How we can help if you have been the victim of Scout abuse
We specialise in representing survivors of sexual abuse in both civil compensation claims and Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) applications. We act for clients throughout England and Wales on a No Win, No Fee basis. Our approach is trauma-informed, recognising the importance of ensuring that survivors feel safe, supported, and in control throughout the legal process.
If you have been affected by the abuse perpetrated by Matt Ellett or any other Scout leader or youth group leader, then do contact our free helpline for confidential advice about your options.
Elizabeth offers a free, no-obligation, and completely confidential initial case assessment. We can explain your options, advise whether a compensation claim may be available, and answer any questions you may have about the process.
We are ranked the top legal firm in the UK for sex abuse compensation claims by the independent legal review website, ReviewSolicitors, ahead of more than 900 competitor firms*.
We are proud of our reputation for handling sensitive cases with compassion and professionalism, advocating for those who have been wronged and ensuring their voices are heard in a challenging legal landscape.
Contact us for a free consultation. We will review your case and consider your funding options, including No Win, No Fee.