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More than 700 paedophiles identified under Sarah's Law

More than 700 paedophiles have been unmasked using powers under Sarah's Law since it was rolled out nationwide. On average, around five child sex offenders have been identified to worried parents every week since April 2011 when the scheme launched.

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Over 700 paedophiles identified under Sarah's Law

Around five child sex offenders have been identified to worried parents and guardians every week since April 2011. Credit: Adam Peck/PA Wire/Press Association Images

More than 700 paedophiles have been unmasked using powers under Sarah's Law since it was rolled out nationwide.

Figures released to the Press Association show, on average, around five child sex offenders have been identified to worried parents and guardians every week since April 2011 when the scheme was launched across the country.

And police forces in England, Wales and Scotland have received 4,754 applications from anxious parents and guardians who want to know whether people who have contact with children pose a risk - meaning just one in seven result in a disclosure.

However, applications have fallen since the scheme was launched, from 1,944 in 2011/2012 to 1,106 so far in 2013/2014, while disclosures have also declined from 281 in the first year to 122 in current year to April.

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