11,000 talk to website over school sex abuse

Service will assist with complaints

A HELPLINE has been set up for victims of sexual abuse in schools after a website received 11,000 anonymous testimonies.

The NSPCC-RUN service will offer advice to children and adults, including how to report incidents to the police.

England’s education watchdog Ofsted will also begin an immediate review of school safeguarding policies.

It comes after thousands of accounts of sexual assault and harassment were posted on a website, many relating to incidents at school or university.

Last night Sir Peter Wanless, CEO of the NSPCC, described the testimonies being shared as “extremely upsetting”.

“This is a watershed moment thanks to those who have found the courage to speak out,” he said. “At least a third of sexual offences against children are committed by other young people and that must be addressed.”

The Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Sexual abuse in any form is abhorrent and it is vital that

these allegations are dealt with properly. While the majority of schools take safeguarding responsibilities extremely seriously, I am determined to make sure the right resources and processes are in place to support victims.”

Ofsted Chief Inspector Amanda Spielman said: “Schools have a crucial role to play in teaching young people about sexual consent. They must also be places where all children feel safe, and where they are able to report abuse.”

Conservative MP Maria Miller said there was “far more to do”. She said: “If we don’t tackle it in our schools, we leave young people leaving school thinking that is entirely right, that they’re able to harass or be on the receiving end.”

Soma Sara, of website Everyone’s Invited where the accounts were posted, said: “We await confirmation from Gavin Williamson that Everyone’s Invited will be included in carrying out this review.” ■ The helpline can be reached at 0800 136 663 or email help@nspcc.org.uk

ALERT: Placards at JAGS school in London