Families of an adult under investigation for online child sexual offences

You have probably been given this leaflet as someone in your household and / or family have been arrested or are under investigation for suspected online child sexual offences.

This will undoubtedly be a period of shock, anger and confusion for you, as well as wondering what will happen next with regards to the police investigation and if anyone else in your family will be affected by this or could be at risk.

The investigating officers will be able to explain more, and you may be contacted by a specific officer who will act as your single point of contact for questions, advice and signposting for support.

More information explaining many aspects should be provided in a booklet provided to you with this leaflet, or you can access it here Family-Pack-2023.pdf (college.police.uk) 

The person being investigated will be handed a list of agencies they can access for support including addressing their offending. The following agencies can provide support and guidance specifically for families and friends of people being investigated and we strongly suggest you seek some support.

The Lucy Faithfull Foundation is the only UK-wide child protection charity dedicated solely to preventing child sexual abuse. They offer the Stop it Now telephone helpline and live chat facility which are anonymous and confidential services available to anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse. They also offer an online forum and Inform programme for families and friends of those who are under investigation for online child offences where participants can share and explore the emotional and practical impact, alongside those who are dealing with similar traumatic issues. 

Call 0808 1000 900 or for the live chat and secure e-mail service www.stopitnow.org.uk/helpline or visit www.stopitnow.org.uk  

Talking Forward offers peer support for families affected by others being investigated for online child offences (known as ‘The Knock’) where you can talk to others experiencing a similar trauma

E-mail on [email protected] or visit www.talkingforward.co.uk

StopSO stands for the Specialist Treatment Organisation for Perpetrators and Survivors of Sexual Offending. They provide an online support group for families where you can share experiences and support each other.

E-mail [email protected] or visit www.stopso.org.uk 

Acts Fast provides support for families impacted by those under investigation for child sexual offences including trauma support, counselling and a support group. Speak to the police if you wish them to refer you to this service on your behalf

E-mail [email protected] or phone 01202 797217 or visit www.actsfast.org.uk 

Circles South East provides support and bespoke programmes for families who have been affected by sexual harm including online offences. 

Call 01235 816050 or visit www.circlessoutheast.org.uk 

Restitute provides support and therapy for partners of those under investigation for child sexual offences when the relationship has ended, and specifically including those who care for children who have been affected.

Visit www.restitute.org and fill out the contact form 

Other Support Agenices

Other avenues for you to seek support may also include speaking to your GP as well as contacting the following services;

Samaritans. Their help is confidential and available 24/7 365 days a year. You can call for free on: 116 123 or visit www.samaritans.org 

MIND offer information, advice, guidance and support for anyone experiencing a mental health problem 03001233393, www.mind.org.uk or [email protected]    

Citizens Advice can offer practical support and guidance on a whole range of topics including financial, housing and family issues www.citizensadvice.org.uk 

Children Heard and Seen support children, young people and families who are affected by parental imprisonment.  www.childrenheardandseen.co.uk