UNITED KINGDOM
Leicester Mercury

A welfare helper at a Rosminian-run Catholic boarding school has been jailed for sexually abusing a pupil, in the 1980’s.

Francis Belt (72) pleaded guilty to two counts of gross indecency at Ratcliffe College, Ratcliffe on the Wreake, Leicestershire, when the boy was between 13 and 15 years.

Leicester Crown Court was told that when the matter came to light Belt was moved elsewhere as the Rosminian Order covered up the scandal.

The victim was then made to write an apology letter to his abuser.

Belt worked in a pastoral role offering support to the pupils – especially the homesick or lonely ones – as well as helping with sports, other activities and doing maintenance jobs.