Sarah's Law (Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme)
The Child Sex Offender Disclosure Scheme (CSODS) lets you formally ask the police whether someone who has contact with a child or children:
- has a record for child sexual (paedophile) offences
- poses a risk to the child or children for some other reason
It's not a law, but it is sometimes called 'Sarah's Law'. It gives guidance on how you can ask us to use our existing police powers to share information about sex offenders.
How to make an application
You can:
- apply online
- call 101
You must apply for information about a specific person you're worried about.
You can apply for information on behalf of one child, or more than one child, at a time.
We'll ask you about:
- your details and contact details
- the person you're asking for information about
- the child or children you're worried about
- why you're worried about the situation
What happens after I make a request?
After you apply for information under Sarah's Law we will:
- make some checks and if we think a child is in immediate danger we'll take action right away
- decide if your request falls under Sarah's Law or not
- get in touch to explain our decision
- carry out a more in-depth interview within 10 days, if we decide to progress your application
- carry out detailed checks and a full assessment of all the information we have
- decide whether there is any information to share with you or anyone else