Will my child get a criminal record if they have sent a nude?

Not necessarily. Police can record incidents involving under-18s using Outcome 21, which logs the event without criminalising the children where prosecution is not in the public interest. The focus is usually safeguarding, not punishment. Schools follow UKCIS guidance on nudes and semi-nudes. Talk to the school's safeguarding lead, and reassure your child.

What should I do if my child's nude image has been shared further?

Stay calm and supportive. Under-18s can use Childline and the IWF's Report Remove service at childline.org.uk to get their own intimate images taken down. Save evidence, report to the platform, and inform the school's safeguarding lead. If an adult is involved or there is coercion, report to CEOP and the police on 101.

Risks and behaviours

Sexting

The sending or receiving of sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos, typically via a smartphone. When involving under-18s, sexting can have serious legal consequences.

Sexting is the sending or receiving of sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos, usually by phone, which becomes a serious legal matter when it involves anyone under 18 because such an image is a criminal indecent image of a child.

In plain English

The sending or receiving of sexually explicit messages, photos, or videos, typically via a smartphone. When involving under-18s, sexting can have serious legal consequences.

Why it matters

Any sexual image of a person under 18 is a criminal indecent image, even if the young people are in a relationship. Police use Outcome 21 to record incidents without criminalising children where it is not in the public interest. UKCIS guidance helps schools respond proportionately.

Risks and topics

sextortion

Reporting routes

image based abuse young person

Sources

Sharing nudes and semi-nudes guidance— GOV.UK / UKCIS

Frequently Asked Questions

This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-17

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