Remove Limitation Period
The Inquiry recommends that the UK government makes the necessary changes to legislation in order to ensure: the removal of the three-year limitation period for personal injury claims brought by victims and survivors of child sexual abuse in respect of their abuse; and the express protection of the right to a fair trial, with the burden falling on defendants to show that a fair trial is not possible. These provisions should apply whether or not the current three-year period has already started to run or has expired, except where claims have been: dismissed by a court; or settled by agreement. They should, however, only apply to claims brought by victims and survivors, not claims brought on behalf of victims and survivors' estates.
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedWe accept the critical issue this recommendation seeks to remedy, and we will consult on strengthening existing judicial guidance in child sexual abuse cases and set out options to reform limitation law in child sexual abuse cases.
The Government has committed to remove the three-year time limit for victims to bring civil child sexual abuse claims with the burden of proof falling on defendants (rather than victims, as at present) to show that a fair trial is not possible. This will protect victims from having to relive their trauma any more than is necessary. The Government will also amend the Law of Apologies through changes to the Compensation Act 2006 to encourage employers to apologise to people wronged by their employees.
Progress Timeline
Removal of three-year limitation period and reversal of burden of proof provisions in Crime and Policing Bill, currently in Lords Committee stage (January 2026). Royal Assent expected later in 2026.
Removing three-year limitation period for civil claims; shifting burden of proof from survivors to defendants. Legislation progressing to remove barriers to civil justice for survivors.