Appeal for Survivors of Former Church Deacon John Grant

The recent conviction of former church leader John Grant has brought to light decades of historic sexual abuse spanning more than 40 years. While the criminal proceedings represent an important step towards justice for the survivors who bravely came forward, they may not be the end of the legal process.

For many survivors of historic abuse, a criminal conviction is only part of the journey. Civil law can provide another route to justice by enabling survivors to pursue compensation against organisations that failed to protect them.

What happened in the John Grant case?

John Grant, 77, was convicted at Wood Green Crown Court on 13^th July 2026 of multiple historic sexual offences against young men. The offences relate to four survivors and took place between 1970 and 2012 when Grant was associated with several churches across the country and youth groups in north London. 

He was found guilty of:

• Three counts of sexual assault,

• Six counts of indecent assault,

• Two counts of causing another person to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity.

He will be sentenced at the same court on Friday, 11^th September.

The offences involved four survivors, although detectives believe there may be many more people who were abused but have not yet come forward.

During his career, Grant was associated with Muswell Hill Baptist Church in London, Billingham Baptist Church in Stockton-on-Tees, Broomsknoll Church of Scotland in Airdrie and Ward Green Baptist Church in Barnsley. 

He also led several youth groups in north London and served as Moderator for the London Baptist Association, a role that saw him visit and preach at churches across the region. 

The Met Police believes his influential position may have enabled him to abuse many more people who have not yet come forward and are appealing for anyone who believes they may have been abused by John Grant to get in touch.

Can survivors still make a compensation claim?

For many survivors, hearing about a conviction like this can stir emotions that have remained buried for years. Some may have felt unable to speak out previously because of fear, shame or concerns that they would not be believed. Others may only now be beginning to understand the impact that the abuse has had on their lives.

It is important to know that survivors who have never spoken to the police, or who were not involved in the criminal case, may still have legal options available to them.

A criminal prosecution and a civil compensation claim are entirely separate legal processes. While the criminal courts focus on determining whether someone is guilty of an offence, the civil courts consider whether a survivor should receive compensation for the harm they have suffered and whether an organisation failed in its duty to protect them.

With historic abuse which may have happened decades ago, many survivors worry that too much time has passed. However, civil courts can allow claims to proceed many years after the abuse occurred, even if the abuser has died.

Compensation can never undo what happened, but for many survivors it’s an opportunity to be heard, for those with responsibility to be held accountable and to gain recognition for the trauma they suffered. It can also provide access to financial support that acknowledges the devastating impact abuse can have on people’s lives.

Can a claim be made against a church or organisation?

Andrew Grove & Co Solicitors specialises in representing survivors of historic abuse and bringing civil compensation claims against organisations, including churches, local authorities and children’s homes. 

We understand that taking the first step can feel overwhelming and that every survivor's experience is different, but we believe every survivor deserves to be heard and believed. A confidential conversation with one of our experienced solicitors can help you understand your options and decide what is right for you, without any obligation to proceed.

We also work with survivors, on a no win, no fee basis, to make the process as supportive and transparent as possible.

If you experienced abuse by John Grant please contact Katherine Yates or Sophie Taylor at Andrew Grove & Co Solicitors on 01223 367133 or 07810 224545 or by email at katherine@andrewgroveandco.com or sophie@andrewgroveandco.com for free, confidential advice.