The law for bringing civil claims for child sexual abuse has changed. As of 29 June 2026, the three-year time limit for bringing these claims has been removed.
Serious Personal Injury solicitor and abuse claim specialist Seetal Patel outlines why this change matters and what it could mean for survivors looking to come forward.
Why this change was needed
Previously, survivors were expected to bring a compensation claim within three years of turning 18.
While courts could allow claims outside that time, this was often difficult, adding further stress and uncertainty for the survivor.
The change has been introduced by the Crime and Policing Act 2026, which received Royal Assent on 29 April 2026. Alongside a significant development in how these cases are treated, there will also be a shift in how the courts assess historic claims.
