Mapping evidence on justice wellbeing impacts after child sexual abuse

This project investigates the interplay between justice, wellbeing, and recovery following child sexual abuse, with the aim of informing child-centred justice approaches. 

Why is this important?

Recent reports highlight children’s experiences of welfare and justice after child sexual abuse and the urgent need for reform across the UK. There is significant research activity relating to violence against women and girls, but this is heavily balanced towards adults with less attention to understanding the unique experiences and needs of children. Current frameworks and policies inadequately address the unique developmental and experiential needs of children. 

What does it involve?

The research team will address these gaps by synthesising evidence on justice, wellbeing, and recovery, aiming to support evidence-informed, child-centred justice responses. The following questions will be answered: 

• What does the existing evidence base tell us about children’s perceptions and experiences of justice following child sexual abuse, the relationship between perceived (in)justice, wellbeing and recovery, and the policy and practice implications of this across the four UK nations? 

• What is known about children’s experiences of criminal and family justice processes following child sexual abuse, and the impact on their wellbeing and recovery journeys? 

• How does the policy landscape across the four UK nations inform children’s justice experiences after child sexual abuse and impact their related wellbeing and recovery? 

• What is known about the meaning and significance of ‘justice’ to child victims of child sexual abuse, and how does this relate to adult-centred theoretical concepts of justice after sexual violence? 

• How does the heterogeneity of child sexual abuse and children’s intersectional biographies influence their experiences and perceptions of justice, wellbeing and recovery? 

The research involves:   

• Conducting a systematic Rapid Evidence Assessment on children’s justice experiences and the impact on wellbeing and recovery.   

• Mapping and reviewing policies across the four UK nations to identify barriers and opportunities for child-centred justice.   

• Analysing the applicability of adult-centric justice frameworks to children’s experiences.   

• Co-creating recommendations with victim/survivor experts and stakeholders.   

How will it make a difference?

Findings will be shared with stakeholders such as the Ministry of Justice, Home Office, Department for Education, Scottish Government, and other relevant bodies. Outputs will include briefings, webinars, and policy briefings.