Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO)

A civil order that can be made when it deals with a child defendant following a conviction.  The order prohibits or requires someone to do certain things specified on the order, with the purpose of protecting the public from sexual harm.

The court must consider that the offender: 

• presents a risk of sexual harm to the public;
• and that the order is necessary for the purpose of protecting the public against that risk. 

Guidance states that when they are applied for in relation to children: 

• There must be early consultation and participation of YJS. 
• 14- to 17-year-olds made subject to civil injunctions in relation to harmful sexual behaviour should be offered appropriate interventions to reduce the harmful behaviour.
• The nature and extent of that support is based on a structured assessment that considers the needs of the young person and the imminent risk.
• The welfare of the child or young person is the paramount consideration, in line with local safeguarding procedures.