FAILING to report sex abuse should be made a crime for those working with children, a major inquiry has concluded.
It means teachers, childminders, babysitters, doctors and even school bus drivers must tell police or social services about any suspicions.
The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse said church leaders must also report abuse which they learn of through confessions — which are confidential under canon law.
It found that abuse was often covered up by institutions to protect their own reputations.
Chairwoman Alexis Jay said: “We heard time and time again how allegations of abuse were ignored, victims were blamed and institutions prioritised their reputations over the protection of children.
“Mandatory reporting should be an absolute obligation.
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“It should not be subject to exceptions based on relationships of confidentiality, religious or otherwise.”
The inquiry said the law need not apply to sexual activity involving those over 13 if it was consensual.
