Mandatory reporting of child sexual abuse in the UK—Are we all talking about the same thing?

Mandatory reporting of suspected child abuse involves regulations that legally require the reporting of suspected cases of child abuse to state authorities. In this study, we examine the debate surrounding the planned introduction of MR for child sexual abuse (CSA) in England. The research explores the discourses shaping the MR debate employing a qualitative, grounded theory approach that incorporates policy document analysis and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. The findings address four key themes: (1) MR as a tool to promote disclosure of harm to children; (2) MR as a way to improve intervention and professional responses; (3) MR's role in reshaping public and professional attitudes and responsibility towards CSA; and (4) MR's potential contribution to detecting crime and addressing institutional cover-ups. The analysis explores the diverse understandings and rationales underpinning the MR debate in England, revealing potential challenges, including the complexities of balancing child welfare with public protection mandates. The study suggests focusing policy to respond to the child’s needs rather than focusing on criminal justice outcomes, ensuring that any implementation of MR prioritizes children’s well-being. The research may contribute to the critical discussion of child protection policy internationally, offering insights relevant to social work practice and policy development.