We can all do our part to be aware of the facts about child sexual abuse – these six points from our practitioners are important for every adult to know. https://t.co/EbzWxJNUwv
— Barnardo’s (@barnardos) March 10, 2020
Far more children are being abused than we currently know of.
Evidence from agencies tells us 1 in 6 children experience sexual abuse before their 18th birthday. While this is startling enough, we also know that this isn’t the whole picture: the level of child sexual abuse that’s self-reported in surveys is much higher than the level recorded by agencies.
That means that 7 out of 8 of those experiencing child sexual abuse don’t come to the attention of police or local authorities.
This must change. All children affected by abuse should get the support they need to be made safe and start to recover.
Wondering what you can do to protect children? Read our guide on how to make sure children and young people feel comfortable with being able to talk about their worries.