One of the largest child abuse group actions ever brought before a UK court has resulted in 11th hour compensation deals worth up to £200,000,
A 60-strong group of people who, as children, were in the care of Sunderland City Council in the 1960s to 1980s, launched civil damages claims for physical, sexual and emotional abuse they say ruined their lives.
Fifteen cases were due to be heard at Newcastle County Court next week.
But yesterday, the city council agreed to a settlement totalling about £200,000, with the biggest payout to an individual abuse victim set at £50,000.
Another 45 cases are still waiting to be heard.
However, law firm Stewarts, which specialises in personal injury law, hopes that an across-the-board settlement will be reached.
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