Former attendees of an educational referral center, Canolfan Brynffynnon, have shared harrowing accounts of abuse, including being forced to consume dog biscuits off the floor for the amusement of staff. Victims reported being locked in dark bathrooms, having their noses flicked until bleeding occurred, and being pelted with heavy footballs. The facility, which operated in Y Felinheli, closed in 2014 following numerous allegations of misconduct.
Cyngor Gwynedd has formally acknowledged that the abuse took place and issued an apology. While two former staff members have denied all allegations, the council has settled claims with several victims, including a £10,000 payout to two former pupils. Solicitor Katherine Yates, who represents 21 claimants, is now pushing for a comprehensive public inquiry into school management within the region, noting that these events follow the recent imprisonment of headmaster Neil Foden for sexual abuse.
Rhiannon Evans and Levi Lewis are among those speaking out about their experiences. Evans described being treated like a peasant, including an incident where staff poured blackcurrant juice over her head. Lewis, who attended the unit starting at age four, detailed being dragged by his hair and suffering from long-term physical and emotional trauma. The local authority stated that it has reviewed its safeguarding procedures and remains committed to implementing lessons learned from past failures.
