Lawyer 'concerned' about impact of abuse as Royal Mail postman jailed for 6 years

This week, Michael Stewart, a 63-year-old postman, was jailed for six-and-a-half years for groping multiple women while making deliveries in Northumberland. He was found guilty of 12 offences, including sexual assault, exposure, and harassment. 

Two of the postman's five victims have since died, with one taking their own life, allegedly as a direct result of Stewart's actions and Royal Mail's failure to respond to complaints. The court heard that Stewart abused his position of trust, and that Royal Mail has since apologised and has implemented changes.

A need to protect vulnerable individuals

As an expert lawyer at Irwin Mitchell specialising in claims from sexual abuse and assaults, I'm very concerned about the impact of Michael Stewart's actions on his victims, particularly the severe psychological harm that is likely to have led to the tragic loss of life. 

This case highlights the crucial need for robust systems to protect vulnerable individuals and ensure that complaints of abuse are taken seriously and acted upon promptly. It's essential that organisations have stringent policies and procedures in place to address complaints of abuse effectively and support victims.

It’s also vital that Royal Mail ensures that the individuals impacted are provided with the answers they deserve as to how this conduct was allowed to go on, as well as ensuring adequate compensation for those who have been abused. 

Support available

Through my work on behalf of individuals who have experienced abuse, I understand the huge physical and psychological toll that such abuse can have. Anyone affected by these issues need to be supported so they can try and move forward with their lives.

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting survivors of abuse at our dedicated criminal injury and abuse claims section.