This legacy project pays tribute to all victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and ensures their voices continue to be heard, so that children may be better protected in the future.
We have placed more than 150 memorial benches and plaques across England and Wales, bearing messages of hope and encouragement from victims and survivors.
Thousands of victims and survivors shared their experiences of child sexual abuse with the Inquiry's Truth Project. One in 10 of those who took part were giving their account for the first time.
Every person who came forward made a vital contribution to the work of the Inquiry, improving understanding of child sexual abuse and its impact on victims and survivors. And by speaking out, they gave a voice to all the victims and survivors of child sexual abuse who have not been heard.
Every child, every person, has the right to go through life without fear.
The Inquiry's Legacy Project was designed in consultation with victims and survivors, many of whom said they would like there to be a physical tribute for people to visit.
Rather than confine this to a monument in one or two major cities, memorial benches and plaques have been placed across England and Wales. This reflects the widespread engagement with the Inquiry by victims and survivors from all areas of both countries.
In addition, a number of plaques have been installed on police estates across England and Wales. Some of these can be seen by the public and appear on the bench locator.
This partnership affirms the commitment of the police to ensure they always prioritise the needs and welfare of victims and survivors.
To ensure their voices are still heard after the Inquiry has concluded, the benches and plaques bear messages of hope and encouragement from victims and survivors. They also display details of the legacy website so visitors and passers-by can find out about the Inquiry and its work to help protect children. And in response to what victims and survivors said was important to them, the website provides information on how to access support services.
The sexual abuse of children, and its terrible consequences, have been hidden for too long. Many people said that open conversations around child sexual abuse are essential to drive positive change.
By conveying their messages to a wide audience, for many years to come, the legacy project hopes to help fulfil this aim.
Please select a region on the map to find the location of our benches (correct as at December 2022).
You can find an accurate location for a bench by following one of the links provided.
Benches will be in place for five to 10 years.
Victims and survivors who shared their experiences made a vital contribution to the work of the Inquiry. Read more about their input and engagement.
Find out more information about the work of the Inquiry, and how to access support.
This toolkit contains information on how you can help support our Legacy campaign, including background and campaign messages, suggested social media copy and visual content which you can use in your own communications.