Rape of a Child under 13

The average custodial sentence length given to adults who are convicted of rape of a child under 13 has increased significantly from 8 years and 9 months in 2010 to 13 years and 8 months in 2025. This constitutes a 56% increase in sentence length over 15 years.

The most recent Sentencing Council guideline came into force in April 2013 and it is difficult to determine from the average sentences alone what impact this guideline has had on sentencing practices for this type of offence.

It is also important to note that in this type of offending consent is irrelevant as a child under 13 does not, under any circumstances, have the capacity to consent to any form of sexual activity.