BASW comments on Operation Hydrant figures

Historical child sexual abuse inquiry securing a 35% conviction rate

BASW responds to the latest statistics released by Operation Hydrant – police inquiry into historical child sexual abuse investigations – showing 35% of 11,346 allegations led to convictions. 

BASW said: “The recent report of a 35% conviction rate for historic child sexual abuse investigations by the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse shows investment has brought justice for many people who were silenced and disempowered for years.

“Victims and survivors must continue to have support and the right to report what has happened to them, irrespective of when the offence took place, in the knowledge that there will be a full investigation.

“Regardless of political party affiliation, the government of the day must ensure that the human rights of its citizens are paramount at all times."

Operation Hydrant was launched in 2014 and led by Chief Constable Simon Bailey, the national lead for child protection and abuse investigations.