States supports probe into abuse claims at college

Guernsey's government fully supports an external investigation into claims of historical abuse at a college, the bailiwick's most senior politician says.

Elizabeth College said in recent months it had been "contacted about a number of disclosures of alleged abuse concerning the experiences of former pupils in the 1970s and 1980s".

In a statement, President of the Policy and Resources Committee Lindsay de Sausmarez said she had given Elizabeth College her assurance that the States stood ready to support an independent inquiry in whatever ways were appropriate.

"I hope those affected are reassured by the decision to commission an independent review, which will address these matters with appropriate seriousness," she said.

She added: "The allegations of historic abuse are concerning and very upsetting, and there may be many people in the community who are impacted by this news, including former students, the current school community, and staff, past and present.

"An independent process will enable anyone who has suffered abuse to come forward with the confidence that their voice will be heard, in the knowledge too that any criminal matters will be properly investigated, no matter how long ago their experiences may have been."

Paul Montague, President of the Committee for Education, Sport and Culture, said he fully endorsed Deputy de Sausmarez's statement.

He added: "I can confirm that Elizabeth College informed me ahead of the public announcement that they were planning to conduct this review."

The college previously said it took "safeguarding responsibilities extremely seriously", and Guernsey Police said officers had been liaising with the college.

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