Television often plays an important role in bringing difficult and often uncomfortable subjects into the public discussion. Two recent storylines in Hollyoaks and EastEnders have done exactly that, exploring the grooming of young girls by adults who have been placed in positions of trust and authority.

Advances in digital forensic technology are transforming the way sexual abuse cases are being investigated. These developments are enabling the police to uncover evidence, identify offenders and allow the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to proceed to criminal trial and secure justice for survivors in circumstances where this may previously have been far more difficult.

For many years, when we have spoken about child sexual exploitation and grooming, we have often talked about physical places. But technology is changing the way perpetrators can reach children, even at home.

This case highlights how the growing us of modern technology including artificial intelligence can pose real risks, especially in relation to child protection.

Recent reports of horrific abuse perpetrated by a Scout volunteer, Matt Ellett, in Somerset, have once again highlighted the devastating harm that can be inflicted on children by people entrusted with their care and protection. Ellett, 32 from Taunton, was found unanimously guilty and criminally convicted of 19 offences against five children following a trial in August 2026.

The Cornell University case has sparked wider discussion about sexual assault at universities, victim blaming, misogynistic attitudes and the sharing of sexualised images, highlighting concerns that extend beyond the US to UK higher education. In this blog, Josie Clarke explores the prevalence and impact of sexual violence against students, the potential legal consequences for perpetrators and the legal options available to survivors seeking compensation.

Recent reports of alleged rape, sexual assault and harassment at the Army Foundation College in Harrogate have once again raised serious concerns in the media recently about the safety of young recruits and the responsibility of military institutions to protect those in their care.

One of the most distressing aspects of child sexual abuse cases is when offenders avoid facing justice altogether. A recent case highlighted by the BBC shows how an alleged and convicted abuser was able to leave the UK before standing trial or serving his sentences.