Government announces new reforms to support victims of child sexual abuse

The government has announced new measures which will better support victims of child sexual abuse with new reforms that prioritise their rights. Implementing commendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA), the changes will make it easier for victims to gain an apology and to pursue claims in the civil court.

The three-year time limit for victims to bring personal injury claims will be removed. So will the burden of proof that currently rests on victims’ shoulders, who must prove it is possible to hold a fair trial for one to go ahead. Now, that burden is lifted off victims and placed on defendants, who must show a fair trial cannot proceed if they intend to block one. This will enable cases to be heard more easily, and protect victims from reliving their trauma. The Law of the Apologies will also be amended to encourage employers to apologise to people wronged by their employees.

Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood said  “Child sexual abuse causes lifelong trauma and these important changes, recommended by Professor Jay, are long overdue.

“These measures help survivors pursue their path to justice. They build on the Government’s mission of halving violence against women and girls and support our Plan for Change.”

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