Rise in Reports of Organised Ritual Abuse Linked to ChatGPT Use in the UK

Recent reports indicate a notable increase in allegations of organised ritual abuse in the UK, with experts attributing part of this rise to the use of ChatGPT as a therapeutic tool by survivors. This phenomenon highlights the complexities surrounding the reporting and understanding of such abuse, which often includes elements of satanism and other esoteric beliefs.

The Guardian

Organised ritual abuse, characterized by sexual violence and neglect involving ritualistic practices, has been historically underreported in the UK. According to police, there is no specific modern-day charge for these offenses, which can involve abusive families, human traffickers, and online gangs. Since 1982, only 14 criminal cases have acknowledged ritualistic practices in sexual abuse. Clinical psychologist Dr. Elly Hanson’s 2025 research suggests that existing convictions represent only a fraction of the actual occurrences.

The Guardian

Gabrielle Shaw, CEO of the National Association of People Abused in Childhood (Napac), has noted a sustained increase in reports of ritual abuse over the past 18 months, with many individuals citing ChatGPT as a referral source. Richard Fewkes, director of the Hydrant Programme, emphasizes the need for systemic improvements in addressing these cases, which have often been dismissed due to their fantastical elements.

The Guardian

Shaw reported that out of 36,700 calls to Napac over nine years, 1,310 specifically mentioned organised ritual abuse. This statistic underscores the prevalence of such allegations, despite the challenges in obtaining justice for victims.

The Guardian

The National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) has initiated training for police forces to better handle reports of ritual abuse. This initiative includes the establishment of a specialist working group and the launch of a WSPRA briefing for professionals. Shaw remarked on the positive aspect of individuals using AI for support, stating, “if it’s a route into support, that has to be a good thing.”

The Guardian

Experts like Dr. Hanson express concern over the societal disbelief surrounding these allegations, which can hinder justice for victims. She noted that the abuse is not confined to specific cultures but is often found within white British families, challenging common stereotypes. Fewkes highlighted the need for improved reporting mechanisms, stating, “it’s out there, it does exist and it’s not actually being reported.”

The Guardian

While there is a consensus on the rise in reports of organised ritual abuse, the extent and nature of these allegations remain contentious. Some experts argue that the sensational aspects of these cases contribute to a justice gap, complicating the public and legal response.

The Guardian

• “Shaw said: “Over the last six months to a year, we’re getting people contacting the Napac support line saying: ‘I was referred to you by ChatGPT’.” — Gabrielle Shaw, CEO of Napac

The Guardian

• “He added: “We need to improve right the way across the system in dealing with it – it’s out there, it does exist and it’s not actually being reported (to police) …” — Richard Fewkes, Director of the Hydrant Programme

The Guardian

• “ Hanson said victims were growing up in “regimes of cruelty”, but truth was “getting lost between” a “discourse of disbelief” on one hand, and “conspiracy fictions” on the other.” — Dr. Elly Hanson, Clinical Psychologist

The Guardian

This evolving situation underscores the need for continued awareness and action regarding organised ritual abuse in the UK, particularly as new tools like AI reshape how survivors seek help.

The Guardian