“Our clients trusted us to fight for them on these difficult cases and ensure their voices were heard. This litigation has been made far more complex and lengthy by the defender, while our clients have acted with resolute dignity throughout. At long last they have achieved success and can take this compensation as confirmation that Celtic Boys’ Club was indeed inextricably linked to Celtic Football Club.”
– Laura Connor, Partner and Head of the Life Impact Team
Justice has finally been achieved for the majority of survivors who endured sexual abuse while playing for Celtic Boys’ Club, as Celtic FC agrees to compensation payouts following years of legal pursuit.
Thompsons Solicitors, who have acted on behalf of survivors for almost a decade, confirmed that approximately 70 per cent of cases have now been settled for a seven-figure sum, with further settlements expected in the coming weeks.
The legal action, led by around 30 survivors, was brought under Scotland’s new group proceedings legislation - a landmark legal framework allowing a collective legal claim similar to class action lawsuits seen in the United States.
This particular action against Celtic FC was the first of its kind in Scotland to proceed under the group proceedings model while also ensuring that each survivor retained their individual right to compensation for their own injuries and losses. Thompsons Solicitors noted this as a critical feature of the litigation, recognising the unique impact each survivor experienced.
While the majority of cases have now reached settlement, Thompsons have advised that a small number of claims remain active, and the overall group litigation is ongoing until all survivors receive the justice they deserve.
Thompsons believes this case will pave the way for future group proceedings in Scotland, offering a blueprint for other survivors seeking justice in complex abuse and institutional cases.
For the survivors, this is more than a financial settlement - it is long-overdue recognition, accountability, and a step forward in their journey of healing.
