22 October 2021
Statement from Dilworth Trust Board Chairman Aaron Snodgrass
“We hope today’s guilty plea by Johnathan Stephens in relation to two charges of historical offending at our school is a further step towards justice and healing for his victims.
We are unable to comment on the specifics of the matter while it remains before the court. We commend the bravery of those who came forward resulting in today’s conviction.
On behalf of the school, we are sorry for the abuse you endured while you were at Dilworth.
Our focus remains on supporting our community at this difficult time and in particular those Old Boys who were victims of abuse.
Any Old Boy who needs assistance can contact a free, confidential Listening Service which provides access to professional counselling and psychological support services. Please email [email protected] and an experienced psychologist will call you.
We are continuing to engage with police, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, as well as working to establish a best practice redress programme for Old Boys who are survivors of sexual abuse, which we expect to launch in the first half of 2022.”