Written question asked by Matt Bishop (Labour) on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 30 October 2025. It was answered by Jess Phillips (Labour) on Wednesday, 5 November 2025 on behalf of the Home Office.

Offences against Children

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of including (a) clear and (b) deliverable objectives to combat child (i) sexual abuse and (ii) exploitation in the updated Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.

Answer

This Government recognises the devastating impact of child sexual abuse and exploitation and is committed to tackling these crimes.

The new VAWG Strategy will set the direction for the next decade, driving forward the Government’s bold ambition to halve VAWG within ten years. This is a landmark commitment that demands a truly transformational approach. It’s vital we get it right. We’re working towards publication of the Strategy as soon as possible and I will continue to keep the House updated on its development and forthcoming publication.

Tackling child sexual abuse and exploitation will be clearly reflected in the VAWG Strategy. But we also recognise that tackling these horrendous crimes requires a targeted and child-centred approach. Which is why we are taking forward an ambitious programme of work across Government, including through our response to the Casey Audit and IICSA recommendations.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 86111
Session: 2024-26
Subjects: Offences against children Gender based violence
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk

Offences against Children

Secondary information

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