Shocking increase in cases of child abuse

NEW FIGURES RELEASED BY THE NSPCC

CHILDREN as young as one were sexually abused in Warwickshire last year as shocking figures reveal a massive 45% rise in cases.

A total of 779 child sex offences were recorded by Warwickshire Police between April 1, 2016, and March 31, 2017 – with five committed against one-year-old babies.

The total for last year was a 45 per cent rise compared to 2015/16 when 538 were reported by the county’s force.

The figures have been revealed by the NSPCC and show that sex crimes against children in Warwickshire included rape, sexual assault and grooming.

A total of 231 crimes were recorded against children aged 10 and under, while 62 of those crimes were perpetrated against children four and under. In 2016/17, 65 offences recorded by Warwickshire Police were flagged as having an online element, up from 38 the year before.

Warwickshire Police have been contacted for comment.

In the West Midlands there were 2,494 child sex offences for the same time period, down from 2,598 the year before.

Across the whole of the UK the number of child sex offences recorded by police rose to a record 64,667 last year.

This was an increase of 15 per cent from the previous year (total of 56,324) – with an offence recorded on average every eight minutes.

The NSPCC believes the dramatic increase could be down improved recording methods by police, survivors feeling more confident to come forward following high-profile cases, and online groomers becoming a significant problem with predators able to reach hundreds of children.

Peter Wanless, NSPCC chief executive, said: “This dramatic rise is extremely concerning and shows just how extensive child sexual abuse is.

“These abhorrent crimes can shatter a child’s life, leaving them to feel humiliated, depressed, or even suicidal.

“That is why it is crucial every single child who has endured abuse and needs support must get timely, thorough help so they can learn to rebuild their lives.

“These new figures suggest the police are making real progress in how they investigate sex offences against children.”

For more information or help call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000 or contact Childline on 0800 1111 or visit www.childline. org.uk