Sexually harmful or abusive behaviour by children and young people first emerged as a matter of concern in the UK during the early 1990s. Criminal statistics for England and Wales (Home Office 2004) reveal the extent of the problem, with approximately 65% of all cautions or reprimands for sexual offences given to young people aged between 10 and 20 years.
NICE are currently developing guidance for the appropriate assessment and treatment of these children and young people; which will be published in 2016. Fiona Campbell, HEDS, in collaboration with Professor Simon Hackett at the University of Durham is leading the effectiveness reviews to inform the development of the NICE guidance.