Law and policy
Mandatory reporting
A legal duty to report specific types of child abuse to authorities. In the UK, mandatory reporting of FGM exists.
In plain English
A legal duty to report specific types of child abuse to authorities. In the UK, mandatory reporting of FGM exists.
Why it matters
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse recommended wider mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse, and government has consulted on a duty to report. Schools and other settings should follow current statutory guidance and local arrangements while law develops.
Sources
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17