Applications open for new Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Victim and Survivor Advisory Panel

Adult victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSAE) are being invited to apply to join a new national advisory panel that will help shape government policy and improve support for people affected by these crimes.

Hosted by the Victims’ Commissioner for England and Wales, the Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Victim and Survivor Advisory Panel will bring together adults with lived experience from across England and Wales to provide insight, challenge and recommendations directly to government.

Panel members will work alongside the Victims’ Commissioner’s office and government departments to provide insight on issues relating to child sexual abuse and exploitation. The Panel will help inform policy development, improve practice and strengthen accountability across government.

Applications are open on Thursday 5 November and will close at 9am on Thursday 3 December 2026.

The Panel will create a structured and sustainable way for victims and survivors to influence decision-making, helping to ensure that policies, services and support better reflect the realities of those affected by child sexual abuse and exploitation.

Panel members will work alongside the Victims’ Commissioner’s office and government departments to provide lived experience insight on issues relating to child sexual abuse and exploitation. The Panel will help inform policy development, improve practice and strengthen accountability across government.

Members will be invited to serve for a two-year term and should be able to commit to around 60 hours of participation each year. Participation will include a mix of online and in-person opportunities, with flexibility built into the programme to support members’ individual circumstances.

Panel members will receive payment for attendance at required meetings and specific project work. Reasonable travel and accommodation expenses will also be reimbursed.

Victims’ Commissioner Claire Waxman OBE said:

The recruitment process has been developed through engagement with victims and survivors, specialist organisations, academic experts and by reviewing international practice. Particular emphasis has been placed on ensuring the process is trauma-informed, prioritising safety, choice, transparency and equity throughout.

Applicants are encouraged to read the application pack before submitting an application. The pack contains detailed information about the role, expectations of Panel members, support available and the recruitment process. An ‘Easy Read’ version is also available.

Applications can be submitted by email or post. Applicants may seek support from someone they trust when completing their application if they wish. People can also withdraw from the recruitment process at any stage.

The Panel is open to adult victims and survivors of child sexual abuse and exploitation from across England and Wales. It is expected to begin its work in Spring 2027.

Anyone with questions about the Panel or application process can contact the Panel team for further information.

Further information

• Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Victim and Survivor Advisory Panel – find out more about the CSAE Advisory Panel.
• Application pack – read more about the role, eligibility criteria and recruitment process.