The Crime and Policing Act 2026 introduces significant legal reforms aimed at strengthening protections for children and improving accountability where abuse occurs. Two of the most important developments are the removal of limitation periods for child sexual abuse claims and the introduction of mandatory reporting duties.
Together, these changes represent a major shift in the legal landscape and are likely to have a profound impact on survivors, professionals, and organisations with safeguarding responsibilities.
Removal of the limitation period for child sexual abuse claims: what has changed?
Historically, individuals bringing civil claims for damages arising from child sexual abuse were subject to a limitation period. In most cases, this required claims to be issued within three years of the claimant’s 18th birthday. Although the courts had discretion to allow claims to proceed outside this timeframe, survivors were required to persuade the court that their case should be allowed to continue, often creating uncertainty and additional legal hurdles.
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 removes the limitation period for child sexual abuse claims entirely. Survivors will no longer be required to justify delays in bringing a claim, regardless of how much time has passed since the abuse occurred.
Why this matters
It is widely recognised that many survivors of child sexual abuse are unable to come forward until much later in life. Delays can be caused by trauma and long-term psychological impact, fear of not being believed, the influence or control of perpetrators, or a lack of awareness that legal redress may be available.
By removing the limitation period, the Act acknowledges these realities and seeks to reduce barriers to justice. This change represents a significant development for survivors of abuse, shifting the focus away from procedural arguments about delay and towards the substance of the claim itself.
Impact for survivors
For survivors, the removal of the limitation period provides a clearer and more accessible route to pursuing a civil claim. It reduces the need for complex legal arguments about why a claim has been brought late and allows cases to be considered on their merits.
That said, evidential challenges may still arise in historic cases. Defendants may argue that a fair trial is no longer possible due to the passage of time, and early specialist legal advice remains essential to address these issues effectively.
Rachel Thain in our abuse team contributed to consultation meetings with other legal professionals to support NAPAC in preparing their responses to the government consultation to change the law of limitation in child sexual abuse cases. Rachel is proud to continue to support NAPAC with their advocacy on behalf of survivors and the incredible work they do. She has also engaged with NAPAC since to share her views on the likely practical implications of these changes for survivors of abuse and those who wish to explore civil compensation claims.
Conclusion
The Crime and Policing Act 2026 marks an important step forward in addressing child sexual abuse. By removing limitation periods and introducing mandatory reporting duties, the legislation aims to improve survivor access to justice while strengthening protections for children.
As these changes take effect, it is vital that both individuals and organisations understand their rights and responsibilities. Seeking specialist legal advice at an early stage can be a key part of navigating this new legal landscape with confidence and care.
How we can help
These reforms represent a significant change for both survivors and organisations. At Enable Law, we have extensive experience supporting individuals who have experienced abuse and advising families through complex and sensitive cases. We understand the lasting impact of these experiences and are committed to providing clear, compassionate and expert guidance.
Our team regularly advises on claims relating to historic child sexual abuse, evidential and liability issues, and Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claims. We also support organisations in understanding their legal duties and managing risk in light of evolving safeguarding requirements.
To talk to a member of our team, call us on 0800 044 8488 or fill in our contact form so we can give you a call at a time convenient for you.
