Concerns for children's safety are at the forefront of many parents' minds, and the communities of Glastonbury and Street are no exception.

Here's what residents need to know about Sarah's Law and the Sex Offenders' Register, key tools for protecting the young and vulnerable.

What is Sarah's Law?

Commonly known as Sarah's Law, the child sex offender disclosure scheme allows anyone to ask the police if someone with access to a child has a record for sexual offences against minors. If the police deem it in the child's best interests, they will confidentially disclose this information to those most able to protect the child, such as parents, carers, or guardians.

The law was introduced following the tragic case of Sarah Payne, whose eight-year-old daughter was killed by a convicted paedophile. The aim is to equip parents with the necessary information to safeguard their children from potential threats.

Who is on the Sex Offenders' Register?

It's important to note that being on the Sex Offenders' Register does not automatically label someone a 'paedophile'. The register can include individuals who have received a caution for minor misconduct, as well as those convicted of severe offences.

How to Access Information

In immediate danger situations, the first step is to call 999. For non-urgent inquiries, residents in Glastonbury and Street can contact their local police by calling 101 or visiting the station in person to request a 'Child Sex Offenders Disclosure Scheme Form', or Form 284. Information may be disclosed if the police consider the individual poses a risk to children.

Local Spotlight: Glastonbury and Street

For those residing in Glastonbury and Street, your local police stations are the places to start should you want to request this vital information. Remember, this information is confidential and should only be used for the intended purpose of protecting children. Legal consequences may apply if confidentiality is broken.

For more tips on keeping children safe, residents can visit the Parents Protect website.

Through Sarah's Law and the Sex Offenders' Register, parents and guardians in Glastonbury and Street have important resources at their disposal to protect their children from harm.