Increase in child sex cases

The number of reported sex offences against children in Nottinghamshire has more than trebled in the last four years - according to a children's charity.
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NSPCC

The NSPCC has revealed the number of sex cases against children across the county increased from 272 in 2012 to 827 in 2016.

In reaction to these shocking figures, the NSPCC has launched the It’s Time campaign calling upon the Government to closely monitor the number of children who have been abused and need support so none are left without help.

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A petition has been signed by 159 people in Nottinghamshire in support of the campaign.

It’s Time was launched in January when a survey showed that 90 per cent of professionals felt that services to help abused children overcome their trauma were inadequate.

More than half (64 per cent) of professionals said in the last five years, it has become increasingly difficult to access vital therapy.

Sandra McNair, NSPCC regional head of service for the Midlands, said: “We take it for granted that the Government has data on everything that’s important.

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“But right now, they are not counting the number of children who’ve been abused and need support. This means some children are left without any help at all.

“As a society, if we don’t know exactly how many children are missing out, we can’t do everything we can to help. So it’s essential we find out.

“This is why we are calling on everyone in the West Midlands who hasn’t yet signed the petition to do so.

“With your help we can change the lives of children who aren’t getting the help they need to overcome their experiences.”

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Nationally almost 30,000 people have signed up to the campaign and supporters are being asked to put pressure on MPs and ministers, in order to get funding prioritised for this vulnerable and forgotten group.

For further information on the charity and the It’s Time campaign, visit the NSPCC website www.nspcc.org.uk

Young people with concerns can call ChildLine 24 hours a day and in confidence on 0800 1111 or visit the website www.childline.org.uk.