At Switalskis, we represent survivors of historic abuse at Colwood and Larchwood, two former NHS child mental health units in West Sussex. David Greenwood is currently acting for 20 clients who experienced abuse while in care at these facilities. We provide expert, compassionate legal support to help survivors seek justice and compensation.

What Happened at Colwood and Larchwood

Colwood and Larchwood units, which closed in 2005, provided in-patient therapy and education for vulnerable children, including those who were neurodiverse or living with mental health conditions.

Allegations include physical and sexual abuse, as well as persistent neglect, spanning the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. Former patients have reported being beaten, sexually assaulted and neglected by staff while in care.

The units were located on the site of the current Princess Royal Hospital in Haywards Heath, and were run by organisations that pre-date the current Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

Police Investigation

Sussex Police have launched an inquiry into historic abuse at Colwood and Larchwood, known as Operation Cortina. Several potential suspects have been identified. Two men, now in their 60s and 70s, have been interviewed, but no arrests have been made at this stage. None of the suspected individuals are currently working in positions of trust or considered an ongoing risk to the public.

Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has confirmed it is fully supporting the police investigation and providing relevant information. The trust encourages anyone who believes they experienced abuse at the units, regardless of how long ago, to contact Sussex Police quoting Operation Cortina.

How Switalskis Can Help

We understand how difficult it can be to come forward about historic abuse, particularly for those who were children at the time. Our specialist abuse solicitors provide a confidential, safe environment to discuss your experiences and explore your legal options.

David Greenwood and the Switalskis team offer a confidential, no-obligation consultation to help you understand whether you may be able to bring a claim. We are committed to supporting survivors of historic abuse and helping them seek justice and compensation.

Contact our specialist historic abuse solicitors

If you experienced abuse at Colwood or Larchwood, please call us on 01924 881 000 . One of our lawyers will speak with you in complete confidence.

Meet our specialist

David Greenwood , solicitor in our abuse claims team, specialises in representing survivors of historic abuse in care and institutional settings. He is currently acting for 20 clients in claims relating to Colwood and Larchwood and has extensive experience supporting survivors across the country.

Navigating the legal maze of a child abuse claim can be tough, especially when you’re already dealing with emotional pain. That’s where we come in. At Switalskis, we’re not just experts in law – we’re people who genuinely care about your wellbeing.

From the moment you reach out to us, you’ll find a caring and confidential environment. We know how hard it is to talk about abuse, and we’re here to listen without judgement. Our team is led by David Greenwood and they are highly skilled in handling both recent and historical abuse claims. We’ll explain all your options in simple terms, so you know exactly what steps are available.

We’ll help you gather all the necessary evidence to make your case as strong as possible. This could include medical records, witness statements or any other documents that could help. We’ll make sure you’re well-prepared and understand what’s happening at every stage.

Legal fees can be a worry, but we’re upfront about costs from the start. We’ll discuss our fee structure clearly, so there are no surprises later on.

 We’re not just here for the legal process. We understand the emotional toll a child abuse claim can take, and we’re here to offer emotional support as well. Once your case is resolved, our support doesn’t just stop. Whether you secure child abuse compensation or achieve another form of justice, we’ll guide you through the next steps and any further actions you may want to take. 

At Switalskis, we’re more than just child abuse solicitors – we’re a team committed to helping you through one of the most challenging times of your life. We’re here to offer expert, compassionate support every step of the way.