Helen's Law and Sarah's Law were two significant campaigns in... Show more
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
20
0
Demetra
7/18/2025
Criminology
AC2.1 Helen's and Sarah's Law Campaign
2,091
•
Jul 18, 2025
•
Helen's and Sarah's Law Campaigns: Methods, Success, and Media Role
Demetra
@demetra_21
Helen's Law
Helen's Law, also known as the Helen's law campaign background and purpose, was initiated in response to the murder of Helen McCourt in 1988. The campaign's primary objective was to prevent parole for killers who refused to disclose the location of their victims' remains.
Background of Helen's Law:
Helen McCourt was murdered by Ian Simms in 1988. Despite his conviction, Simms never revealed the location of Helen's body. He was arrested based on evidence found in his car, including blood and an earring. In 1989, Simms received a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years before parole consideration.
Highlight: Marie McCourt, Helen's mother, attempted to communicate with Simms to learn her daughter's whereabouts, but her efforts were unsuccessful.
Purpose of the Campaign:
The Helen's Law campaign methods focused on preventing parole for killers who withheld information about their victims' remains. Marie McCourt initiated the campaign in 2015, gathering over 600,000 signatures on a petition that was subsequently presented to the Prime Minister.
Example: The campaign's petition garnered significant public support, demonstrating the widespread concern about this issue in the criminal justice system.
Media Involvement and Opposition:
The Mirror newspaper played a crucial role in promoting the campaign, publishing a series of articles over three years. This media involvement significantly raised public awareness about the issue.
Highlight: The role the media played in Helen's Law campaign was instrumental in garnering public support and putting pressure on lawmakers.
However, the campaign faced some opposition. Critics argued that Helen's Law could potentially be misused by criminals, who might provide false information about victims' whereabouts, causing further distress to families.
Success of Helen's Law:
Despite initial delays due to Brexit, Helen's Law was introduced successfully. On November 4, 2020, The Disclosure of Information About Victims Act received Royal Assent, marking a significant victory for the campaign.
Highlight: The success of Helen's Law campaign was a testament to the perseverance of Marie McCourt and the power of public support.
Tragically, Ian Simms was released in 2020 and died two years later without ever revealing the location of Helen's remains.
Sarah's Law
Sarah's Law, another significant campaign in the UK, aimed to protect children from sexual predators by allowing parents access to information about registered sex offenders in their area.
Background of Sarah's Law:
The campaign was sparked by the tragic abduction, sexual assault, and murder of Sarah Payne in July 2000. The perpetrator, Roy Whiting, was a convicted paedophile who received a life sentence for his crimes.
Quote: Sarah's mother, Sara Payne, stated, "If I had known a sexual offender lived nearby, I would not have let my child play outside by herself."
Purpose of the Campaign:
The aim of Sarah's Law campaign was to introduce legislation in the UK that would allow parents and guardians to access information about registered sex offenders or dangerous individuals living in their vicinity.
Highlight: Sarah's parents actively supported the campaign, which sought to empower parents with information to protect their children.
Media Involvement:
The News of the World newspaper played a significant role in promoting Sarah's Law, launching their campaign in July 2000.
Highlight: The media's involvement in Sarah's Law, much like in Helen's Law, was crucial in raising public awareness and putting pressure on policymakers.
Success of Sarah's Law:
The campaign led to the introduction of the Child Sex Offender Disclosure pilot scheme in 2008. This year-long project was deemed successful by the Home Office, reportedly protecting 60 children.
Highlight: The success of Sarah's Law campaign resulted in a significant change in how information about sex offenders is shared with the public.
Under the current UK scheme, parents who receive information about an individual's record are not permitted to share this information with others, ensuring a balance between public safety and individual rights.
Comparing Helen's and Sarah's Law Campaigns:
Both Helen's Law and Sarah's Law campaigns emerged from tragic circumstances and aimed to address specific gaps in the criminal justice system. They share similarities in their use of media support and public petitions to drive change. However, they differ in their specific focuses: Helen's Law targets offenders who withhold information about their victims, while Sarah's Law aims to provide information about potential threats in communities.
Highlight: A comparison of Helen's and Sarah's Law campaigns reveals how grassroots efforts can lead to significant legal reforms, especially when backed by strong media support and public sentiment.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
You have the choice, we offer a 100% secure payment via PayPal or an Amazon gift card. There is no limit to how much you can earn.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Helen's and Sarah's Law Campaigns: Methods, Success, and Media Role
Demetra
@demetra_21
Helen's Law and Sarah's Law were two significant campaigns in the UK aimed at protecting victims and their families. Both laws emerged from tragic circumstances and sought to address gaps in the criminal justice system.
Helen's Law
Helen's Law, also known as the Helen's law campaign background and purpose, was initiated in response to the murder of Helen McCourt in 1988. The campaign's primary objective was to prevent parole for killers who refused to disclose the location of their victims' remains.
Background of Helen's Law:
Helen McCourt was murdered by Ian Simms in 1988. Despite his conviction, Simms never revealed the location of Helen's body. He was arrested based on evidence found in his car, including blood and an earring. In 1989, Simms received a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years before parole consideration.
Highlight: Marie McCourt, Helen's mother, attempted to communicate with Simms to learn her daughter's whereabouts, but her efforts were unsuccessful.
Purpose of the Campaign:
The Helen's Law campaign methods focused on preventing parole for killers who withheld information about their victims' remains. Marie McCourt initiated the campaign in 2015, gathering over 600,000 signatures on a petition that was subsequently presented to the Prime Minister.
Example: The campaign's petition garnered significant public support, demonstrating the widespread concern about this issue in the criminal justice system.
Media Involvement and Opposition:
The Mirror newspaper played a crucial role in promoting the campaign, publishing a series of articles over three years. This media involvement significantly raised public awareness about the issue.
Highlight: The role the media played in Helen's Law campaign was instrumental in garnering public support and putting pressure on lawmakers.
However, the campaign faced some opposition. Critics argued that Helen's Law could potentially be misused by criminals, who might provide false information about victims' whereabouts, causing further distress to families.
Success of Helen's Law:
Despite initial delays due to Brexit, Helen's Law was introduced successfully. On November 4, 2020, The Disclosure of Information About Victims Act received Royal Assent, marking a significant victory for the campaign.
Highlight: The success of Helen's Law campaign was a testament to the perseverance of Marie McCourt and the power of public support.
Tragically, Ian Simms was released in 2020 and died two years later without ever revealing the location of Helen's remains.
Sarah's Law
Sarah's Law, another significant campaign in the UK, aimed to protect children from sexual predators by allowing parents access to information about registered sex offenders in their area.
Background of Sarah's Law:
The campaign was sparked by the tragic abduction, sexual assault, and murder of Sarah Payne in July 2000. The perpetrator, Roy Whiting, was a convicted paedophile who received a life sentence for his crimes.
Quote: Sarah's mother, Sara Payne, stated, "If I had known a sexual offender lived nearby, I would not have let my child play outside by herself."
Purpose of the Campaign:
The aim of Sarah's Law campaign was to introduce legislation in the UK that would allow parents and guardians to access information about registered sex offenders or dangerous individuals living in their vicinity.
Highlight: Sarah's parents actively supported the campaign, which sought to empower parents with information to protect their children.
Media Involvement:
The News of the World newspaper played a significant role in promoting Sarah's Law, launching their campaign in July 2000.
Highlight: The media's involvement in Sarah's Law, much like in Helen's Law, was crucial in raising public awareness and putting pressure on policymakers.
Success of Sarah's Law:
The campaign led to the introduction of the Child Sex Offender Disclosure pilot scheme in 2008. This year-long project was deemed successful by the Home Office, reportedly protecting 60 children.
Highlight: The success of Sarah's Law campaign resulted in a significant change in how information about sex offenders is shared with the public.
Under the current UK scheme, parents who receive information about an individual's record are not permitted to share this information with others, ensuring a balance between public safety and individual rights.
Comparing Helen's and Sarah's Law Campaigns:
Both Helen's Law and Sarah's Law campaigns emerged from tragic circumstances and aimed to address specific gaps in the criminal justice system. They share similarities in their use of media support and public petitions to drive change. However, they differ in their specific focuses: Helen's Law targets offenders who withhold information about their victims, while Sarah's Law aims to provide information about potential threats in communities.
Highlight: A comparison of Helen's and Sarah's Law campaigns reveals how grassroots efforts can lead to significant legal reforms, especially when backed by strong media support and public sentiment.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
You have the choice, we offer a 100% secure payment via PayPal or an Amazon gift card. There is no limit to how much you can earn.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user