Rehabilitation Options for Offenders in Indecent Images Cases: What You Need to Know

At BSQ, we’ve supported dozens of clients facing allegations involving indecent images over the years. Since as early as 2018, our Private Crime department has been calling for more balanced and rehabilitative responses for lower-risk individuals involved in these cases—especially when prosecution or imprisonment may not be the most effective or proportionate solution. In this post, we provide an overview of the rehabilitation programs available to individuals convicted of offences involving indecent images of children (IIOC) who are not sent to prison.

Accredited Rehabilitation Programs

There are three main accredited programs currently in use:

• Horizon

• iHorizon

• Maps for Change

All three are approved by the Correctional Services Accreditation and Advice Panel—an international body of experts—and are evidence-based, showing positive results in reducing future offending. These programs replaced older models of treatment, which research found were often ineffective and, in some cases, counterproductive.

Horizon

• Who it’s for: Individuals assessed as medium or higher risk of reoffending.

• Format: Up to 35 sessions (including 31 group sessions), delivered either in custody or in the community.

• Focus: Helping participants develop better sexual regulation, understand the impact of their behaviour, and build healthier patterns of thinking and relationships. Horizon is regarded as highly effective, with high completion rates and consistently strong participant feedback.
  

iHorizon

• Who it’s for: Individuals who have committed internet-based offences and are considered a lower risk than those placed on Horizon.

• Format: Around 27 sessions, including 23 group sessions, 3 one-on-one sessions, and a final review.

• Focus: Topics include managing online behaviour, sexual interests, internet safety, and developing appropriate relationship skills. It is delivered entirely in the community.
  

Maps for Change

• Who it’s for: Low-risk individuals who are not suitable for Horizon or iHorizon.

• Format: Typically completed over 30 days.

• Focus: The program acts as a ‘map’ guiding participants toward positive behavioural change. It uses a variety of exercises—referred to as "signposts"—to help individuals navigate their journey. The topics covered in maps for changing include consent, sexual preoccupation, victim awareness, relationships, problem-solving, social circles, Internet use, adopting school skills and tools to help manage pornography and others.
  

If you or someone you know is under investigation or facing charges involving indecent images, it is important to seek legal advice as early as possible. Our Private Crime team has extensive experience in handling these sensitive matters with discretion, professionalism, and a focus on achieving the most constructive outcome. You can read about our expertise in handling cases involving allegations regarding how our indecent images solicitors successfully defended our clients, or contact our London office in confidence to discuss how we can help.