Many individuals under investigation for indecent image offences turn to charities such as Stop It Now and the Lucy Faithfull Foundation for help and guidance. But are these services truly confidential — and is there any risk of police involvement if you speak to them?

Do These Organisations Share Information With the Police?

Yes — potentially. While Stop It Now and the Lucy Faithfull Foundation are independent charities, both work closely with the police, social services, and safeguarding agencies. If you provide your name or identifying details, and disclose behaviour that suggests a child may be at risk, there is a real chance that the information will be passed on to authorities.

They are upfront about the fact that they cannot guarantee confidentiality in such circumstances.

Situations where the police may be informed include:

  • Ongoing indecent image offending
  • Discussions about ongoing risk or intent to offend
  • Providing full personal details (name, email, phone, address)

Can You Use These Services Safely?

These services can offer valuable resources and emotional support. But there are important cautions:

  • Do not give your full name or identifiable details unless advised to do so by your solicitor.
  • Speak anonymously if you choose to call.
  • Never admit to illegal activity without first seeking legal advice.

Our Recommended Approach

At McMillans Solicitors, we work with clients facing these situations every day. We believe that early intervention can be extremely valuable, but only when done safely and as part of a well-planned legal strategy.

We have developed a short list of trusted, StopSO-approved therapists who have been personally vetted and received excellent feedback from our clients. Not all StopSO therapists are on our approved list. We only recommend those who:

  • Understand the legal sensitivities of these cases
  • Work discreetly and professionally
  • Are focused on rehabilitation and non-judgmental support

The therapists on our approved list are all committed to treating you  with compassion and respect and will keep your information confidential -as far they are able within the terms of the law. As such revealing that an offence has been committed in the past does not generally mean they will disclose this information to the police, unless concerned that a specific child or vulnerable adult is at risk of harm. Their  priority is to help you change your behaviour, not to punish you for it.

If you would benefit from therapeutic help, contact us for a confidential recommendation.

Early Legal Advice is Essential

Speaking to any organisation about your case without proper advice can be risky. Many of our clients are referred to therapy only after we have carefully assessed their legal position and guided them through the safest route forward.

We also advise clients considering calling helplines such as Stop It Now on how to protect themselves legally and emotionally while seeking support.

Confidential Legal Advice

If you’re under investigation or worried about your online activity, we can help. Our firm specialises in defending individuals in indecent image cases. We offer:

  • Confidential, specialist legal advice
  • Access to trusted therapists for discreet support
  • Guidance on avoiding common legal pitfalls

Speak to McMillans Solicitors today — we’re here to support you without judgment.

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FAQs

Can I speak to Stop It Now confidentially?

You can call them anonymously, but if you provide personal details and disclose serious offending or risk to children, they may inform the police.

What are safer alternatives for support?

We can refer you to carefully selected, StopSO-approved therapists who have helped many of our clients. These therapists understand how to offer support without compromising your legal position.

Should I speak to a therapist before legal advice?

We recommend getting legal advice first. Speaking to any professional about potential offences may put you at risk unless done in the right context.