Introduction
When it comes to safeguarding children, knowledge is power. Sarah’s Law, formally known as the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (CSODS), is a UK legal framework that allows parents, carers, or guardians to ask police whether someone with access to a child has a record of sexual offences.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
What is Sarah’s Law?
Sarah’s Law was introduced in the UK in 2010 following the tragic murder of Sarah Payne, an eight-year-old girl who was abducted and killed in 2000 by convicted sex offender Roy Whiting.
At the time, Sarah’s parents had no way of knowing Whiting's criminal past. The devastating loss of their daughter led to public outcry and a campaign by her mother, Sara Payne, who pushed for parents to have access to information about individuals who may pose a risk to children.
The result of this campaign was the launch of the Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (CSODS), commonly referred to as Sarah’s Law.
Why is Sarah’s Law Important?
Sarah’s Law empowers parents and guardians to take proactive steps in protecting their children from potential harm. The scheme enables:
- Prevention of abuse: It gives families access to potentially life-saving information.
- Community safeguarding: It helps identify risks before harm occurs.
- Legal transparency: It holds known offenders accountable and allows law enforcement to intervene early.
Most importantly, it puts the safety and wellbeing of children above the privacy of individuals with serious convictions.
How Does It Work?
The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme works in two key ways:
1. The Right to Ask
Anyone can request information if they are worried about someone who has contact with a child. This could be a:
- Parent
- Guardian
- Family member
- Concerned friend
You can apply through your local police force or by calling 101.
2. The Right to Know
If the police receive information that a child is at risk, they can proactively disclose information, even if no formal request has been made. This is to ensure the child’s safety.
If a disclosure is made, it will happen in a private, secure setting, and only relevant information will be shared. Disclosure is based on whether it is necessary and proportionate to protect the child.
How to Apply for a Disclosure
The process for making a Sarah’s Law request typically follows these steps:
- Initial contact: Reach out to your local police station or call 101.
- Submit details: Provide information about the person of concern and your relationship to the child.
- Identity verification: The police will verify your identity to ensure confidentiality.
- Risk assessment: Authorities will assess whether a disclosure is necessary.
- Disclosure decision: If a disclosure is approved, you will be invited to a confidential meeting.
Important: If there is no relevant information to disclose, it does not necessarily mean the person poses no risk. It only means there is no information held by the police.
Who Can Use Sarah’s Law?
You can request a disclosure if:
- You are concerned about someone who has regular access to a child
- You are a parent, step-parent, guardian, grandparent, family friend or neighbour
- You are a professional such as a teacher or social worker who suspects risk
Disclosures will only be made to individuals who are in a position to protect the child.
Does Sarah’s Law Replace DBS Checks?
No. Sarah’s Law does not replace a DBS check, subject access request, or any other formal employment screening process. It is a complementary safeguarding tool.
Here’s how they differ:
DBS checks remain essential for regulated roles like teaching, healthcare, and childcare. Sarah’s Law is designed for private use, helping parents and carers make informed personal decisions.
How Sarah’s Law and Della’s Law Work Together
Della’s Law was introduced to strengthen the effectiveness of Sarah’s Law by preventing convicted sex offenders from hiding their past through name changes.
Della Wright discovered her abuser had legally changed his name multiple times, evading detection. Her campaigning helped close this loophole.
Together, these laws:
- Prevent identity manipulation by offenders
- Ensure police records remain accurate
- Provide greater protection in disclosure checks
Conclusion
Sarah’s Law is a powerful step forward in child safeguarding, giving everyday people a chance to protect children from hidden dangers.
By making the process accessible, confidential, and supported by law enforcement, the scheme ensures that children’s safety comes first.
If you are concerned about someone’s access to a child, don’t stay silent:
Contact your local police station or call 101 to submit a Sarah’s Law request.
Together with DBS checks and proper screening, Sarah’s Law is a critical part of protecting children, families, and communities.
