Helping protect children from sexual abuse now and in the future
Who we are
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse, chaired by Professor Alexis Jay OBE (pictured), was set up because of serious concerns that some organisation had failed and were continuing to fail to protect children from sexual abuse. Our remit is huge, but as a statutory inquiry we have unique authority to address issues that have persisted despite previous inquiries and attempts at reform.
Investigations
InvestigationsWe are examining what went wrong and why, and will challenge those institutions responsible. The evidence we gather will inform our recommendations to help protect children in the future.
Research
ResearchWe have an ambitious research programme which will fill gaps in the knowledge about child sexual abuse and make sure our recommendations are informed by the latest learning.
The Truth Project
Our truth project offers the opportunity for Victims and Survivors to share their experience and be respectfully heard and acknowledged. By doing so, they will help us to better understand the long term impact of abuse. Their contribution will help us make recommendations about support needs, as well as challenging our assumptions of child sexual abuse.
The Inquiry has taken the difficult decision to stop holding face to face Truth Project sessions at this time, after carefully considering the Government's guidance. Other methods of sharing are still available.
Experiences Shared
These are some of the experiences of child sexual abuse shared with the Truth Project. All names and identifying details have been changed.
Quarterly Statistics
Quarterly StatisticsThe Inquiry is providing a statistical update on the three strands of our work.
Recommendations
The Chair and Panel make recommendations which are published as part of the conclusions in an Inquiry report.
Get in touch
If you wish to ask a question about the Inquiry or if you have information to support our investigations please get in touch:
- You can call the Inquiry Information line on: 0800 917 1000 Open weekdays 9am-5pm. Calls are free and do not show on your bill.
- You can share your experience through the Truth Project, either by emailing us at contact@iicsa.org.uk or using our online form.
- You can write to us via Freepost IICSA INDEPENDENT INQUIRY (no stamp required)
You can call the Inquiry Information line on: 0800 917 1000 Open weekdays 9am-5pm. Calls are free and do not show on your bill.
You can share your experience through the Truth Project, either by emailing us at 
You can write to us via Freepost IICSA INDEPENDENT INQUIRY (no stamp required)We aim to respond to all calls, emails and letters within 15 working days, however, it may take longer to respond in busier periods.
Latest Inquiry Report
Latest Inquiry ReportThe Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse has published its Safeguarding Children from Sexual Abuse in Residential Schools research report.
Latest News
Latest News- The Inquiry has launched a new dedicated section on its website to provide updates on institutional responses to its recommendations.7 April
- The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse has today announced that following the suspension of the Child Protection in Religious Organisations and Settings public hearing due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it hopes to resume the hearing via video conference at 10.30 am on 11 May 2020.6 April
- The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse has today published new research exploring the many challenges staff in residential schools face to safeguard pupils and handle child sexual abuse.2 April
Victims and Survivors Consultative Panel
The Inquiry’s Victims and Survivors Consultative Panel has welcomed two new members. Kit Shellam and Nujoji Calvocoressi will advise the Inquiry on how best to listen to and reach victims and survivors in all aspects of its work.
Hearings
HearingsIf you wish to attend Public Hearings you can view our investigation timetable or consider whether to apply for special status in a future investigation.
If you attend at the hearing centre, you may hear experiences of child sexual abuse which may impact you. We have support workers available at our hearing centre during public hearings. We can also suggest further help and support resources.
Deaf Assistance
Help and support specifically curated for deaf users and organisations