Child abuse solicitor and director Amy Clowrey appeared on BBC Breakfast alongside her client, Sarah Wilson, this morning to discuss the government's decision to pause plans that could have seen some prisoners released earlier than expected.

The proposed changes to the Sentencing Act had caused significant concern among victims and survivors of serious offences, including child sexual exploitation, who feared dangerous offenders could be released from prison sooner than anticipated.

Sarah, who was groomed and sexually abused in Rotherham as a child, spoke powerfully about the impact the proposals had on her and other survivors.

She described learning that two of the men convicted of abusing her could be eligible for early release under the plans, saying the news left her feeling as though she was "back at square one" after finally beginning to rebuild her life.

A pause provides time, but not certainty

During the interview, Amy explained that while the government's decision to pause the plans is welcome, many survivors of child sexual exploitation who she represents remain anxious because there is still no clarity about what will happen next.

Amy said: "The most common response from survivors is sheer panic and wanting to move out of area. That's what I've seen from my clients that I represent, and most of them have just been really unwell as well. So, there's not a lot they can do because this has turned their whole lives upside down.”

Amy also highlighted that many survivors have experienced significant distress since the proposals were announced, with some considering moving away from their local area because of fears about offenders being released early.

She called for survivors to be involved in future discussions about any changes to sentencing policy, saying they would welcome the opportunity to meet with government ministers to explain the real-life impact these decisions have on victims.

Sarah's story

Sarah has campaigned tirelessly for justice following the abuse she suffered as part of the Rotherham child sexual exploitation scandal.

Her courage in speaking publicly has helped raise awareness of the long-lasting impact that abuse and the criminal justice process can have on survivors.

You can read more about Sarah's experience, the legal action she has taken and her ongoing campaign by reading her case study .

Supporting survivors of child sexual abuse

At Switalskis, our specialist child abuse compensation team represents survivors of childhood sexual abuse across England and Wales. We understand that legal developments such as these can be unsettling, particularly for those whose offenders remain in custody.

If you have concerns about how changes to sentencing or offender release could affect you, or you would like advice about making a compensation claim, our specialist team is here to help.

Find out how Switalskis can help you

Every survivor of abuse deserves justice. That means holding perpetrators fully accountable, and it also means ensuring survivors are supported to reclaim their voice, rebuild their sense of control, and pursue the compensation they are entitled to for the harm they have suffered.

At Switalskis, our specialist abuse lawyers have decades of experience in representing survivors of child sexual exploitation. We understand that such cases are very emotional for clients and often legally complex, therefore we are dedicated to providing a supportive and professional environment in which our clients can feel confident in our services. We are committed to ensuring our clients receive the compensation they deserve.

If you have been impacted and would like to discuss your experience in confidence, our specialist abuse team   can help. Call 0800 1380 458  or email help@switalskis.com.