The UK government has come under fire for its slow response to implementing the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) recommendations, which were delivered in 2022.
Campaigners have accused officials of neglecting the issue for months and only acting after social media posts by Elon Musk on X (formerly Twitter) reignited public discourse around grooming gangs.
Last week, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper committed to advancing three key reforms recommended by IICSA: introducing mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse, improving data collection, and imposing longer sentences for groomers. However, many of the inquiry’s other recommendations remain unaddressed.
Campaigners have criticised what they see as a “kneejerk reaction” to political pressure. A government source countered these claims, stating that discussions on the inquiry’s proposals had been ongoing, with measures reviewed during a December ministerial meeting.
On Saturday, the government announced plans to establish a “victims’ and survivors’ panel” to oversee the implementation of IICSA’s recommendations.
A Home Office spokesperson highlighted efforts to engage with survivors’ groups, campaigners, and other stakeholders to drive meaningful change.
The seven-year IICSA report, which concluded in 2022, examined various aspects of child sexual abuse, including grooming gangs. While its chair, Professor Alexis Jay, praised the recent focus on the issue, she expressed disappointment at the politicisation of child exploitation and urged for action over further inquiries.
Jay also noted that her interactions with the government predated Musk’s controversial posts, though the added attention may have accelerated decision-making.
Labour MP for Rotherham Sarah Champion, who has long campaigned for action on grooming gangs, criticised delays in implementing IICSA’s recommendations, particularly the lack of a compensation scheme for victims.
Champion noted that the current system, overseen by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, is inadequate, with strict rules on time limits and criminal convictions preventing many survivors from receiving justice.
The Financial Times recently reported that a compensation scheme for victims could cost the government between £5 billion and £10 billion. While the Conservatives had previously pledged a consultation on the matter, it has yet to be launched, reportedly due to cost concerns.
The Home Office stated that it is working to assess the costs of implementing IICSA’s remaining recommendations while ensuring the focus remains on delivering meaningful change for victims.
