At Thompsons Solicitors, we are proud to stand beside the survivors of Fornethy House, whose courage has led to not only to a significant conviction but a wider acknowledgement and understanding of the depravity at Fornethy House.
Last week (Wednesday 15th October), Patricia Helen Baxter (or Robertson), a retired teacher, was convicted for the abuse of 18 girls in her care at Fornethy House, a children’s convalescent home once operated by Glasgow Corporation and later Strathclyde Regional Council. While the institution was meant to provide care and respite for children in need, the evidence told a very different story, one of cruelty, fear, and lifelong trauma.
For many survivors, this conviction is more than just a legal outcome. It is a long-awaited acknowledgement of what happened to them, and a validation of the truth they have carried for decades.
Standing Beside Survivors Every Step of the Way
Laura Connor, Partner and Head of our Life Impact Team, who represents 218 survivors of Fornethy House, described the verdict as “a watershed moment for our clients and all those who suffered at Fornethy House.”
“It has taken immense courage to come forward, and we admire the strength and dignity they have shown throughout this process,” Laura said.
“Our clients have spoken of their relief at finally being heard and believed – and that is one of the most important outcomes of all. This conviction represents not just justice, but validation.”
The bravery shown by survivors in court has empowered others to come forward and share their stories. Their voices have helped shine a light on the systemic failings that allowed such abuse to continue unchecked, and their testimony will play a vital role in shaping how society responds to historical abuse cases in the future.
Trauma-Informed Legal Support, Lawyers who Listen and Believe
At Thompsons, our trauma-informed legal team understands the deep emotional and psychological impact of abuse. Every lawyer in our Life Impact Team has specialist training to ensure survivors are supported with empathy, respect, and care throughout the legal process.
We know that for many, the journey towards justice can be daunting. Our role is not just to represent survivors in court but support them through the process. Providing trauma informed legal advice that helps our clients feel safe, empowered, and heard as they reclaim their voices.
The Road Ahead
While this conviction in the criminal courts is a significant milestone, our work in progressing civil claim is just at the beginning. Thompsons continues to lead the way in supporting Fornethy House survivors as they pursue civil justice and compensation, recognition not only of the harm they suffered but of their enduring resilience.
“We now turn our focus to the civil courts,” said Laura Connor, “to ensure that as many survivors as possible receive the justice and compensation they are entitled to.”
A Message of Hope and Accountability
This case marks the first formal acknowledgement of the abuse many suffered at Fornethy House. It sends a powerful message, that no one is above accountability, and that survivors will be heard.
If you are a survivor of abuse and would like to speak confidentially with one of our trauma-informed lawyers, please contact our Life Impact Team. We are here to listen, believe, and support you.
Talk to Thompsons on 0800 0891 331.
