NSPCC reveals 200 referrals to local agencies over fears of sexual abuse in Wales

NSPCC Wales has revealed that last year it referred an average of almost four contacts a week to police and children’s services in Wales from members of the public concerned a child was being sexually abused.

In 2016/17 the charity’s free and confidential helpline referred 200 calls and emails to local agencies, an increase of 28 per cent on the previous year, when 156 contacts were referred externally.

There were also a further 118 contacts where Helpline staff gave advice about sexual abuse against young people.

UK-wide, the charity made 4,677 referrals to children’s services or the police in 2016-17 after being contacted following concerns about sexual abuse, equivalent to an average of 90 contacts a week.

[miptheme_quote author=”One caller who phoned the NSPCC helpline” style=”text-left”]I am concerned that a young girl in the neighbourhood might be at risk of sexual abuse by men who visit the house on weekends.

There is lots of drinking that goes on and mum doesn’t seem to be too concerned about leaving her alone with them.

Mum can be often heard shouting and swearing at the girl and I don’t think she is fit to care for her. [/miptheme_quote]

To ensure as many of these young people are getting the help they need the NSPCC has launched the ‘Light Up Christmas for Children’ appeal. To support the campaign all you have to do is make a small cash donation by sending a simple text message.

A child is sexually abused when they are forced or persuaded to take part in sexual activities. This doesn’t have to be physical contact and can happen online, for example through live streaming.

Sometimes the child won’t understand what’s happening to them is abuse or, in some cases, that it’s even wrong.

• Children who have experienced sexual abuse may:
• avoid being alone with people, such as family members or friends
• show sexual behaviour that’s inappropriate for their age
• have physical symptoms such as a sexually transmitted infection

It is estimated the one in 20 children in the UK have experienced contact sexual abuse.

NSPCC Wales is calling for the creation of a comprehensive strategy to prevent child sexual abuse in Wales.

In partnership with others, the charity aims to share expertise on the development of a national plan through its Cross Party Group on Preventing Child Sexual Abuse – the first of its kind within the National Assembly for Wales.

Des Mannion, Head of NSPCC Wales, explained:

“It is deeply worrying that so many children are potentially being exposed to such a devastating experience, but at the same time it also suggests that as a society we are much more alert to the risks and much more willing to come forward and share our concerns.

“Sexual abuse can do huge damage to a child’s life and left untreated will often haunt them long into adulthood. It is therefore vital that anyone who suspects a young person is in danger contacts the authorities or gets in touch with us through our dedicated Helpline.”