News

Thursday 24th September 2026

The Removal of the Three‑Year Limitation Period for Child Sexual Abuse Claims is Now Law.

With the Crime and Policing Act 2026 receiving Royal Assent on 29 April 2026, survivors of childhood sexual abuse in England and Wales are no longer restricted by the previous three‑year time limit that applied under the Limitation Act 1980. This is one of the most significant reforms in decades for victims seeking justice, and it implements key recommendations from the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA).

What Has Changed?
1. The Three‑Year Limitation Rule Has Been Abolished.
Section 96 of the Crime and Policing Act 2026 removes the time limit for personal injury claims arising from childhood sexual abuse. Previously, survivors had just three years from the date of injury - or three years from their 18th birthday - to bring a civil claim. That restriction has now been eliminated.

This change applies to all claims not already settled or dismissed by a court, meaning many individuals who felt unable to pursue justice due to time limits may now be able to bring a claim.

2. The Reform Applies to Historic Abuse.
The Act explicitly states that the removal of limitation applies to actions brought before and after the section comes into force, provided the claim has not already been concluded. This significantly expands the pool of potential claims and ensures survivors who were previously time‑barred can now seek redress.

3. A New Burden of Proof.
The burden of proof has shifted. It is now for the defendant - not the survivor - to prove that a fair hearing is impossible due to the passage of time. This is a major step in recognising the long‑term impact of trauma and the difficulties survivors face in coming forward.

Why This Matters for Survivors.
Childhood sexual abuse often results in profound psychological, emotional and physical harm. Often, survivors do not feel able to disclose their experiences until adulthood - sometimes decades later. The previous limitation rules failed to reflect this reality.

The new law acknowledges that it is never too late to speak up, echoing the message Rundlewalker has long championed in its guidance to survivors.

How Rundlewalker Solicitors Can Help.
Rundlewalker’s Accident & Injury Claims Team has extensive experience supporting survivors of abuse with sensitivity, professionalism and determination. Our approach is grounded in the belief that every survivor deserves to be heard and supported.

Expert Guidance from Roger Henderson.
Roger Henderson, Director and Head of Personal Injury, has represented many survivors of abuse and understands the unique challenges these cases present. He and his team can assist you by:

• Assessing whether you now have a valid claim under the new legislation
• Obtaining evidence, including historic records, witness statements and expert reports
• Handling all communication with defendants and insurers
• Protecting your anonymity and privacy throughout the process
• Pursuing compensation for psychological injury, therapy costs, financial losses and long‑term impacts
• Providing trauma‑informed support at every stage

Roger’s commitment to survivors is reflected in Rundlewalker’s long‑standing message: "it is never too late to speak up".

If You Are Considering a Claim.
You do not need to decide immediately. Many survivors simply want to understand their options. The removal of the limitation period means you can explore your rights without pressure or fear of being “too late.”

Rundlewalker offers confidential, compassionate and expert advice. For a sensitive discussion about how we could help you make a claim, please contact Roger Henderson on 01392 209218 or email roger.henderson@rundlewalker.com

If you or someone you know experienced sexual abuse as a child, the law has finally changed to support your right to justice. Rundlewalker is here to help you take the next step - whenever you are ready.

Roger is a member of many organisations, including the Association of Child Abuse Lawyers (ACAL) the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), and the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM). 

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"From the very beginning, Roger was incredibly supportive, empathetic and professional. My case involved historical abuse, which is an extremely sensitive and difficult subject to revisit, but everything was handled with genuine care and understanding. The primary people supporting me were Roger and their barrister, and I cannot thank them enough for the way they approached my case. They went above and beyond to make sure I fully understood every stage of the process. Even when things became complex or challenging, they remained open, honest and transparent, always taking the time to explain what was happening and what my options were. I never felt rushed or dismissed; instead, I felt listened to and supported throughout. What stood out most was their compassion alongside their professionalism. They treated me as a person first, not just a case file, which made an enormous difference during such a difficult process. Their tenacity to do what is right and to seek a just outcome is truly admirable, and it was evident in every step they took on my behalf. The outcome we achieved was a true reflection of the way we worked together and the support they provided every step of the way. I am incredibly grateful for their dedication and commitment. I could not recommend them highly enough. For anyone looking for a law firm that delivers five-star service, genuine support and outstanding professionalism, they are truly without fault." S.J.

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"I had a really positive experience with Rundlewalker. Roger was extremely knowledgeable and empathetic to my case. He kept me updated at every stage of the process and ensured I knew exactly what the next steps were. He was friendly and approachable and only ever a phone call away. I really appreciated his high level of professionalism, which all helped in achieving a successful outcome. Highly recommended." M.P.

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This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.