Published Monday 17 January 2022 at 15:33
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.
Blackburn with Darwen’s Executive Member for Children, Young People & Education, Councillor Julie Gunn said:
“Being the victim of abuse can leave young people feeling lonely and isolated. Sometimes they don’t even know they are being abused and it takes someone else to identify it. The prevalence of abuse may be higher than you think, with 1 in 10 children in England and Wales experiencing abuse before their 16th birthday.
“So please look at the information on how to spot the signs that a child may be experiencing abuse. Let’s all play our part in showing young people that they are not alone, by reporting any signs of abuse or concerns that a child may be being abused.
“If you have any concerns that a child or young person is at risk of or is being abused, please call 01254 666400 (Monday to Friday 08:45 to 17:00) or during evenings and weekends call 01254 587547. If you believe that a child is at immediate risk and in need of protection then you should call the police on 999 immediately.
“Together we can all let children know that we care, that things can get better and we can stop abuse.”
Child protection | Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
The Government’s new Stop Abuse Together 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.
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.