AN MP has hailed the Archbishop of Canterbury’s support for mandatory reporting of sexual abuse as a “significant step” towards a change in the law to help protect children and vulnerable adults from harm.

Batley & Spen MP Tracy Brabin is now calling on the government to bring forward legislation to make the reporting of sexual abuse of children and vulnerable adults mandatory across all institutions.

It comes after survivor Matthew Ineson, from Heckmondwike, who has waived his right to anonymity, re-lived the harrowing ordeal he endured at the hands of a Church of England priest over 30 years ago at the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse.

Ms Brabin, who has been supporting Matthew in his quest for justice for over two years, said: “The Archbishop of Canterbury’s support for a change in regulation represents a significant step forward."

“There is significant international evidence to show that mandatory reporting can double the number of at-risk children placed into safety. A change in the law can’t come soon enough.

“The government must act on this evidence now and bring forward a change in legislation to protect children and vulnerable adults across all institutions.”

Earlier in the week, the Archbishop of York, John Sentamu, also signalled his support for the introduction of mandatory reporting.

Many abuse survivors have long argued that mandatory reporting of suspicions or allegations of abuse to the relevant authorities is a crucial part of effective child protection.