In every community, there are individuals who embody resilience, courage, and unwavering determination to right the wrongs of a broken system. For those of us privileged to know her, Jan Cruickshank is one such person—a light in a dark room, illuminating the harsh realities of injustice and giving voice to those who cannot speak for themselves.
Jan’s story is more than an account of personal suffering; it is a battle cry for systemic reform. Her case exposes failures across corporate, legal, and political institutions, yet it also highlights the extraordinary strength of a woman who refuses to be silenced. Thanks to Jan’s resolve and the advocacy of her MP, Seamus Logan, her fight has reached the halls of Parliament, igniting hope for change.
The Darkness of Betrayal
In 2015, Jan’s life was upended by a heinous act of sexual assault while working at the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The perpetrator, known within the organisation as a serial offender, exploited a system that failed to protect its employees. For Jan, reporting the assault led to unimaginable consequences—false narratives, professional isolation, and a deliberate campaign to discredit her.
The aftermath of the assault revealed a toxic culture at CITB, where safeguarding was secondary to reputation management. Whistleblowers exposed how the organisation’s legal team calculated the potential cost of damages and launched a targeted smear campaign against Jan. False allegations and warped investigations left her reeling, yet her spirit remained unbroken.
A Systemic Failure
Jan’s battle extended beyond the CITB. Police Scotland, tasked with investigating her case, failed to pursue charges despite clear evidence of criminal behaviour. Procedural errors, a lack of training, and potential bias in the investigation further compounded her trauma. When Jan spoke out on social media, police officers visited her home to pressure her into silence—a stark reminder of how victims are often retraumatised by the very systems meant to protect them.
Her Employment Tribunal, marred by flawed advice and coercion, forced her into a settlement far below what she deserved. Despite this, Jan refused to sign a confidentiality agreement, determined to bring her story to light and ensure others never face the same injustices.
A Light of Hope: Seamus Logan, MP
Jan’s fight has not been solitary. Her MP, Seamus Logan, has proven to be a steadfast advocate, amplifying her voice in Parliament and demanding accountability from those in power. In an age where political courage is often in short supply, Mr Logan’s commitment to Jan’s case stands as an example of true leadership. He has not only called for justice in Jan’s case but has also championed the broader reforms necessary to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Few MPs are willing to take on such challenging cases, knowing the resistance they will face from powerful organisations and entrenched systems. Seamus Logan’s advocacy is a testament to his belief in justice and his dedication to the people he represents. For Jan and her family, his support has been a beacon of hope in their darkest hours.
Courage in the Face of Adversity
Jan’s journey has spanned nearly a decade, with each step revealing new barriers designed to silence victims and protect perpetrators. Despite this, she has continued to fight—not just for herself, but for others whose voices have been suppressed by the same tactics.
Her courage has inspired countless individuals, serving as a reminder that speaking out is a powerful act of defiance against injustice. Even as she faces the psychological toll of her experiences, Jan remains determined to see justice done—not only for herself but to pave the way for others to follow.
A Call for Systemic Change
Jan’s story underscores the urgent need for reform. The misuse of Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), the mishandling of sexual assault cases by corporations, and the failures of law enforcement demand immediate attention. Robust anti-SLAPP legislation, improved safeguarding measures, and specialised training for police are not optional—they are essential to protecting victims and restoring public trust.
It is equally vital that organisations like CITB take responsibility for their actions. By implementing meaningful changes to safeguard employees and prevent future abuses, they can begin to rebuild the trust lost in the wake of Jan’s case.
A Legacy of Strength
For those who know Jan, her resilience is nothing short of extraordinary. She has taken unimaginable pain and turned it into a platform for change, refusing to let her story end in silence. Her light, shared with those who support her, is a testament to the power of truth and the strength of the human spirit.
Jan would also like to express her heartfelt gratitude to John Robertson, whose unwavering dedication to justice has been a source of strength throughout her journey. Many of us know John for his fearless advocacy, particularly his efforts to expose corruption and champion the rights of those silenced by oppressive systems. Despite being deplatformed by LinkedIn exposing the truth, John’s determination has never wavered. His guidance and commitment to Jan’s cause have been instrumental in her fight, and his work continues to inspire others to speak out against injustice.
Jan’s fight is not over, but with the support of people like John Robertson and Seamus Logan, as well as a growing community of advocates, her voice grows louder. Her story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is hope. There is a light. And that light is Jan.
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this article are based on publicly available information, personal accounts, and documentation provided by those involved. Every effort has been made to present an accurate and fair representation of events. However, the content reflects the perspectives and experiences of individuals and may not represent the full scope of the situation.
This article is intended to raise awareness and advocate for systemic reform, not to prejudice any ongoing or future legal proceedings. All individuals and organisations mentioned are presumed innocent unless proven otherwise through appropriate legal channels.
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Thank you, John. I am honoured by your kind words.
I didn’t choose this battle but I will not be silenced.