Young people encouraged to report abuse

New figures released by the NSPCC show that over 8,000 under 18’s were accused of sexual offences against other children in the last two years. In the same time period in Cheshire there were a total of 34 cases.  The report also states that most victims knew their alleged abuser and that up to two thirds of contact sexual abuse on children is committed by other young people.

Dominic Rogers, Youth Ambassador said “the report brings the subject of abuse in the spotlight again. Sexual abuse within teenage relationships is not acceptable and I encourage any young person who thinks they may have been abused to speak to someone. I understand that reporting a crime to the police can be nerve wracking for some people, but there are other organisations that can help to begin with.”

Bernadette Oxley, regional head of service for the NSPCC in the North West said “It’s deeply concerning that such a lot of children are committing sexual offences including serious assaults and rape. For very young children, such as those of primary school age or younger, we have to explore and understand the environment in which they are growing up in that has led to them behaving in this way.

“But these children are not beyond help. If we act quickly and children receive support such as that provided by the NSPCC’s ‘Turn the Page’ service we can stop them becoming adult sex offenders. And, most importantly, their victims need support to overcome what has happened to them. Sexual offences, whether committed by another child or an adult, can have lifelong consequences.”

Dominic added “the prevention work that is done in schools is helping young people to understand the signs. I would encourage a young person that may know of someone who has experienced abuse to come forward. There are many options available to young people, Crimestoppers and Fearless allow you to report it anonymously, Childline can give you help and guidance or you can speak to the police on 101. By reporting, the victims and offender can be supported to prevent future re-offending.”