14.01.14
NSPCC launches new advice on keeping children safe from sex abuse
There has been a rise in the number of young children reported as sexual abuse victims last year, the NSPCC has warned.
Figures show that in 2012/13, police forces recorded 5,547 sex crimes against under-eleven year olds; nearly a 20% rise on the previous year. In total, 22,654 sexual offences against under-18s were recorded in the last year, with four out of five cases involving girls.
The NSPCC is launching the second phase of their ‘Underwear Rule’ campaign to encourage parents to talk to their young children about staying safe from sexual abuse.
Peter Wanless, chief executive of the NSPCC, said: “Sexual abuse continues to be a terrible scar on our society which won’t heal by itself. Our campaign has started to make inroads in giving children the protection they need but there is obviously still a long way to go.
“The police figures are worrying because they should be going down not rising, although the ‘Savile effect’ may be resulting in more people reporting abuse.
“Whatever the reason this highlights the urgent need to tackle this problem from an early age. And parents and carers can play an important role by ensuring their children are armed with the knowledge to recognise the wrong kind of behaviour and keep themselves safe.
“The Underwear Rule is a vital part of this process and is already striking a chord with some parents but we would urge more to get involved.”
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