Sarah’s Law
Protecting Children by Knowing the Risks
When it comes to protecting children from harm, knowledge is power. Sarah’s Law, officially known as the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme, gives parents, carers, and guardians the right to ask the police if someone who has access to their child has a history of sexual offences against children. This law was introduced to help families protect children from known abusers who might otherwise remain hidden in communities.
The scheme is named after Sarah Payne, an 8 year-old girl who was tragically abducted and murdered in 2000 by a known child sex offender. Sarah’s family campaigned for the law to be introduced to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.
How Sarah’s Law Work
There are two main parts to the disclosure scheme:
- Right to Ask:
- Anyone who is worried about someone’s access to a child can make an application to the police.
- This could be a parent, family member, carer, or guardian.
- Police Assessment:
- The police check their records to see if the person has a relevant criminal history.
- If the police believe that sharing information is necessary to protect the child, they will disclose it.
Who Can Apply?
- Parents and legal guardians.
- Anyone responsible for the welfare of a child.
- You can apply even if you’re unsure or just concerned.
How to Apply for Information:
- Contact your local police station or visit their website.
- Some police forces have online application forms.
- You can also apply by calling 101 (the non-emergency police number).
- If it’s an emergency or you believe a child is in immediate danger, always call 999.
What Happens After You Apply?
- Police may arrange a confidential meeting to gather more information.
- They will run background checks on the individual you’re concerned about.
- If there is a risk to a child, the police will share that information with the person responsible for safeguarding the child.
⚠ Important to Know:
- Any information shared must be kept confidential and used only to protect the child.
- It is a criminal offence to misuse the information or spread it to others not involved in safeguarding the child.
Why Sarah’s Law Matters:
No one should have to live in fear of not knowing who is around their children. Sarah’s Law gives families a chance to act early, ask questions, and take steps to protect their children from potential harm.
If you’re worried about someone’s access to your child, don’t stay silent. Use Sarah’s Law and find out the truth. Contact your local police, or call 101 to start the process. Your action could help keep a child safe.
