STORY
In a recent address to Parliament, Home Office Minister Jess Phillips outlined the UK government’s intensified efforts to combat child sexual abuse and exploitation. Emphasising the gravity of these crimes, Phillips highlighted that an estimated 500,000 children are sexually abused annually. In 2023 alone, there were 115,000 recorded cases of child sexual abuse, with 4,228 identified as group-based offences.
Phillips reported significant progress by the Grooming Gangs Taskforce, which contributed to 550 arrests in its first year up to March 2024. Notably, in the subsequent nine months of 2024, the Taskforce achieved 597 arrests, surpassing its previous annual performance. Data for early 2025 is forthcoming, but these figures indicate a positive trend in law enforcement’s response.
To further strengthen child protection, the government is implementing several measures:
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Child Sexual Abuse Police Performance Framework: Introducing new standards focused on public protection, child abuse, and exploitation.
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Legislation Targeting Online Offending: Addressing abuse and grooming facilitated by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
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Enhanced Border Force Powers: Enabling the detection of digitally held child sexual abuse material at UK borders.
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Restrictions on Registered Sex Offenders: Preventing offenders from changing their names to evade detection.
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Increased Investment in Law Enforcement: Bolstering capabilities through the Police Uplift Programme.
These initiatives build upon previous commitments, such as the introduction of mandatory reporting laws for child sexual abuse and the establishment of a victims and survivors panel to guide policy implementation. The government’s comprehensive approach aims to ensure perpetrators are apprehended and that victims receive the justice and support they deserve.