Child sex offence recorded on average every 8 minutes in the UK
The number of child sex offences recorded in the UK has risen by 15% according to new figures we obtained from the police.
Police recorded crimes against children including rape, sexual assault and grooming.
Of the 64,667 recorded child sexual offences:
13,876 were against children aged 10 or under
2,788 were against children aged 4 or under
193 were against babies under the age of 1.
1 in 10 offences were flagged as having an online element – a 59% increase on the previous year.
Reasons for the rise
A number of factors could have contributed to the rise, including:
police forces improving recording methods
children and young people feeling more confident in disclosing abuse following high-profile cases
online groomers becoming a significant problem as perpetrators are able to reach hundreds of children
The exact number of sex offences committed against children is unknown. Children may not have come forward because they're frightened, ashamed or don't realise they've been abused.
NSPCC Chief Executive Peter Wanless 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. To help them tackle the issue going forward, we must ensure the police are equipped to work with other agencies and provide ongoing support and training to officers on the frontline."
Published: by Radio NewsHub