Safeguarding: The Ban on Child-like Sexual Abuse Dolls
HM Government is backing the introduction of a new law to ban child-like sexual abuse dolls. These dolls replicate the bodies of children and are used for sexual gratification.
Although the police have encountered these dolls whilst investigating child sexual abuse cases and when monitoring registered sex offenders, current legislation does not provide for a specific offence on owning or making the dolls. If the Bill’s passage through Parliament is successful, the new law will make it illegal to buy, sell or own child-like sexual abuse dolls, with proposed penalties of up to five years' imprisonment.
A UK ban would mirror similar action taken abroad. In Australia, these dolls are legally treated as child exploitation material. Importing and possession penalties are in place and carry a maximum penalty of 10 and 15 years in prison respectively.
Whilst some advocate that such dolls may offer a safe sexual outlet for minor-attracted people (MAPs) and could be used in efforts to prevent the sexual abuse of children, the Bill supports the view that these child-like dolls sexualise children, may increase offending risk and normalise harmful attitudes towards children.
Commenting, Minister for Safeguarding and Violence Against Women and Girls, Satvir Kaur, stated:
"As the mum of a young child myself, I am horrified these disturbing dolls even exist. This new law will mean we can seize them and prosecute anyone involved in their sick trade. This government is supporting this bill as part of our drive to expose abuse sooner, disrupt offenders faster and protect more vulnerable children from these horrors.”
Having pledged £100 million towards tackling child sexual abuse, the move to ban these dolls is part of a comprehensive government strategy to strengthen the protection of children.
Whilst the Bill clearly messages that the sexualisation of children in this way is completely unacceptable, in its current form it does not include provision to ban digital equivalents of child-like sexual abuse dolls, an omission which also needs to be considered.
The Child-like Sexual Abuse Dolls (Offences) Private Members’ Bill has progressed to committee stage, which will now involve a detailed examination of the text by a specialised committee of MPs, who will propose any needed amendments prior to the report stage.
A final debate and vote will be held on the third reading of the Bill which, if successful, will then proceed to the House of Lords.
SSS Learning
9 September 2026