Police record a dozen sex crimes on children each day
years ago to 1,185 last year – a rise of 32%.
Cleveland Police recorded 1,008 cases last year, compared to 247 in 2014/15 – a rise of 308%.
The charity said the figures show the need for national leadership in response and urged the Home
Office to publish and implement its Tackling Child Sexual Abuse Strategy.
NSPCC chief executive Peter Wanless said: “The crisis of child sexual abuse is not going away and behind these figures are thousands of children and young people who have reported crimes that can have a devastating impact on their lives.
“Urgent action is needed to prevent abuse and to ensure children are supported to recover when they bravely speak out.”
He added: “We need concerted leadership from governments across the UK to implement strategies on tackling child sexual abuse that put the experiences and needs of children at their heart and are effective in preventing abuse and helping young people recover.”
The Government strategy was announced by then Home Secretary Sajid Javid in June last year but has yet to be published.
The NSPCC is calling for the needs of children and young people to be at the centre of how authorities respond to child sexual abuse, with a focus on effective prevention and victims having access to timely specialist support.
Anyone concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC Helpline for advice on 0808 800 5000.
Adult victims of non-recent sexual abuse can also get in touch for support.
Childline is available for young people to ring on 0800 1111 or online at www.childline.org.uk