It’s estimated that one in ten children in England and Wales will experience sexual abuse before they turn sixteen. That’s equivalent to three in every classroom.
Most children won’t tell anyone at the time of their abuse. That’s why it’s important for everyone to know how to spot the potential signs of child sexual abuse and where to go for support if concerned. The Government’s new Stop Abuse Together (stopabusetogether.campaign.gov.uk) website can help you learn to spot the signs, and have regular conversations with your child which can help keep them safe, and know when it’s right to reach out for more support.
If you feel something’s not right, you can call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. No matter what’s happened, there’s always someone who will listen to you and take what you say seriously.
All children have a right to be safe from sexual abuse, and we all have a role to play in keeping them safe. Let’s stop abuse together.