BAKEWELL SOCIAL WORKER ANDREW WILSON JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE AT DERBY CARE HOMES

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Derbyshire community, Andrew Wilson, a former social worker residing in Bakewell, has been sentenced to 40 months in prison for his involvement in the sexual abuse of underage girls at care facilities in Derby. The allegations against Wilson, which date back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, reveal a disturbing pattern of exploitation carried out under the guise of his professional role.

Wilson’s misconduct was uncovered after a lengthy investigation and a four-week trial that culminated in his conviction. The court heard how Wilson, then aged 62, engaged in inappropriate and sexual acts with two young girls at Moorfields Children’s Centre located in Sinfin. The abuse included touching and kissing their breasts, with one victim recounting that Wilson engaged in sexual activity with her “five or six times.”

Despite the severity of these allegations, it was revealed that when concerns about Wilson’s conduct first emerged, they were not properly addressed. Instead, Derbyshire County Council chose to pay him a sum of £5,000 to leave his position, effectively sweeping the allegations under the carpet. This decision has been heavily criticized, as it allowed Wilson to continue his life and career without facing immediate justice.

One of Wilson’s victims, whose identity remains protected by law, shared her harrowing experience. She stated, “I did not do anything to stop it because I was afraid. He was in a position of authority and was an aggressive man. I couldn’t say anything, I was confused and scared. I was scared of any retributions if I spoke out. I was scared that no-one would believe me.”

Wilson’s employment history includes work at Moorfields Children’s Centre in Sinfin Lane during the 1970s and 1980s, followed by a position at Queensferry Children’s Home, also in Derby, during the same period. His actions have now led to a conviction on six counts of indecent assault, following a trial held in November of the same year.

Earlier in 2017, Wilson, a resident of Baslow Road in Bakewell, was formally charged with nine offences of sexual assault against three girls under the age of 16, with the incidents occurring between 1977 and 1985. The offences took place at Moorfields Assessment Centre in Sinfin, where he was employed as a social worker at the time.

Derbyshire Police confirmed Wilson’s guilt, stating, “A Bakewell man has today been found guilty of six charges relating to sexually abusing children between 1977 and 1985. He has been remanded in prison custody and will be sentenced on December 14 at Derby Crown Court.” The case highlights the importance of accountability and the ongoing efforts to address historic child abuse cases within the region.