Include clergy in position of trust definition
The government should amend Section 21 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 so as to include clergy within the definition of a position of trust. This would criminalise under s16-s20 sexual activity between clergy and a person aged 16-18, over whom they exercise pastoral authority, involving the abuse of a position of trust.
- The Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 (s.47) amended Section 21 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 to include clergy and sports coaches within the definition of a position of trust, criminalising sexual activity with 16-17 year olds in those roles (Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022, s.47).
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedOn 9 March 2021, the Ministry of Justice and Home Office stated that the government would introduce the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. The Bill sought to extend the definition of a 'position of trust' to prevent sports coaches and religious leaders from engaging in sexual relationships with young people under the age of 18. On 28 April 2022, the Bill received Royal Assent and section 47 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 reflects this change.