Meeting a child following sexual grooming
Section 250Also known as: Child grooming
Legislation
Sexual Offences Act 2003
Section 15
No
Classification
Release Information
How this offence affects release dates under the Sentencing Act 2026
Standard Release Provisions Apply
This offence does not trigger section 244ZA(7), so standard release rules apply:
- SDS (post-commencement): One-third (⅓) release point
- SDS (pre-commencement): Halfway (½) release point
- Note: The applicable regime depends on sentence date
Additional Notes
Maximum 10 years custody
Youth Detention (Section 250)
Special release rules for offenders sentenced when under 18
Section 250 Youth Detention Applies
When this offence is committed by someone under 18 years old, Section 250 of the Sentencing Act 2020 governs their release:
- Release point: Halfway (50%) of the custodial term
- Not affected by SA 2026: Youth sentences are NOT subject to the one-third release changes
- Applies to: Detention in a Young Offender Institution or Secure Training Centre
Further Reading
Guides and resources related to this offence
Next Steps
Tools and resources to help you understand your situation
Related Offences
Other offences from the same statute or with similar classification
Offences Against the Person Act 1861 s.29
Sexual Offences Act 1956 s.2
Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 s.8
Prevention of Crime Act 1953 s.1
Criminal Law Act 1977 s.1
Channel Tunnel (Security) Order 1994 s.Art 4