Chetham’s School of Music, in Manchester, was once known as a prestigious private music school for gifted young musicians. But that reputation was left in tatters after a number of former pupils came forward with allegations of appalling sexual and emotional abuse by people working at the elite institution – including violin teacher, Christopher Ling.
Ling would kill himself without ever facing his accusers in court.
For the first time, two of his victims – who use the names Laura and Catherine to protect their identity – speak openly about the abuse they suffered and tell of the lasting impact it has had on their lives.
We speak to Laura’s mum about the devastating moment she realised what had been going on. We also hear from lawyer Richard Scorer, who acted for the women during the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, Namita Prakash from Trust House Reading, speaking on behalf of The Survivors Trust, and Anne Campbell who is chief executive of Embrace Child Victims of Crime.