Ministers have changed the law following fury over grooming gangs (Image: Getty)
Police will be told they “could and should” apologise to victims after a “watershed” law change.
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed the Law of Apologies will be changed to prevent public bodies hiding behind “institutional liability”.
The Ministry of Justice said this will make it more likely victims will receive apologies from forces on behalf of disgraced officers, care home bosses, hospital chiefs or school leaders.
And the three-year time limit for victims to lodge compensation claims has been axed.
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Gabrielle Shaw, Chief Executive of the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC), said: “This is a watershed moment for survivors of child sexual abuse.
“These reforms recognise the long-term impact of trauma and ensure survivors are not excluded from seeking redress simply because of the time taken to come forward.
“NAPAC also welcomes greater clarity on apologies. A sincere apology, when freely given and supported by meaningful action, is invaluable – especially as part of wider efforts to ensure accountability and prevent future harm.
“These important changes reflect the growing understanding of what survivors need to access justice and healing, and we welcome the government’s commitment to making them a reality.”
Currently, victims must bring a civil child sexual abuse claim within three years of turning 18, unless they “can prove a fair trial can proceed despite the time lapse”.
But the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) heard a “significant number” of claims are being rejected because it can take “decades for survivors to feel able to discuss their sexual abuse”.
And the Ministry of Justice has declared sexual predators must be the ones to show “a fair trial cannot proceed”, for example due to a lack of evidence.
The burden of proof has now been shifted from the victim to the accused.
IICSA also heard organisations dodge apologising “because of concerns it may be interpreted by individuals, such as insurers, as an admission of fault”.
The changes mean organisations can apologise to victims for the behaviour of some of their employees.
Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood said: “Child sexual abuse causes lifelong trauma and these important changes, recommended by Professor Jay, are long overdue.
“These measures help survivors pursue their path to justice. They build on the Government’s mission of halving violence against women and girls and support our Plan for Change.”
Justice Minister Sarah Sackman KC added: “The courts must work for the public they serve – and we recognise that victims and survivors need time to process their trauma.
“By changing the law, it will now be possible for victims to come forward, and seek justice, when they feel ready to do so.”