Changes to time limits for child sexual abuse claims: what survivors need to know

What was the previous time limit?

Previously, survivors had three years from their 18th birthday to bring a civil personal injury claim. In practice, this meant claims usually had to be started by the survivor’s 21st birthday.

If a claim was brought after that date, it was considered “out of time”. The court could still allow the claim to proceed, but survivors were usually required to explain the delay and show that a fair trial could still take place, for example because evidence and witnesses remained available.

Why has the law changed?

The previous system was widely criticised because it did not reflect the reality of trauma and delayed disclosure. Many survivors are not able to talk about abuse until much later in life, and the time limit could prevent them from pursuing justice when they were finally ready to come forward.

Our specialist abuse lawyers have long called for reform in this area, including through work connected with the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, to ensure the law better reflects survivors’ experiences and the barriers they face in coming forward.

What is changing?

The Crime and Policing Act 2026 received Royal Assent on 29 April 2026 and the new law comes into place on 29 June 2026. It introduces a major reform by removing the three-year time limit for bringing a civil personal injury claim arising from child sexual abuse.

This means there will no longer be a fixed deadline for survivors to bring these claims. A survivor will be far less likely to be prevented from starting a civil claim solely due to the passage of time.

The burden shifts to defendants

The Act also changes how timing arguments will be considered. Previously, survivors often had to persuade the court that a fair trial remained possible despite the passage of time.

Under the new approach, the burden shifts to the defendant. If a defendant argues that a claim should not proceed because too much time has passed, they must show that a fair trial is not possible.

This is intended to make the process fairer for survivors while still preserving the right to a fair trial.

Will the changes apply to non-recent abuse?

The Act is intended to apply to non-recent claims, meaning many survivors who were previously considered ‘out of time’ may now be able to bring a claim.

However, the changes will not reopen claims that have already been settled or decided by a court.

Which claims are covered?

The reform applies specifically to civil personal injury claims arising from child sexual abuse including claims against individuals and institutions such as schools, local authorities and religious organisations.

The reform is focused specifically on child sexual abuse. Different time limits may apply to other types of abuse, but claims may still be possible depending on the circumstances.

If you are unsure whether your circumstances fall within the scope of the changes, it is important to seek specialist legal advice.

What does this mean for survivors?

The removal of the limitation period is a significant step forward for survivors of child sexual abuse. It better reflects the fact that delayed disclosure is common and that trauma can affect when someone feels able to disclose their abuse.

Survivors will no longer be working against a strict legal deadline. Instead, they may have greater choice and control over if and when they decide to explore a civil claim.

Speak to a specialist solicitor

Although the reforms remove a major barrier, every case will depend on its own facts. Evidence, the identity of the defendant and the circumstances of the abuse will all still be relevant.

If you are a survivor of child sexual abuse and are considering a civil claim, speaking to one of our specialist solicitors can help you understand your options in a sensitive and supportive way.