Police fear child sexual abuse figures are the tip of the iceberg

National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Lead for Child Protection, Chief Constable Simon Bailey said:

“My assessment of the scale on child abuse chimes with the figures released today by the NSPCC.    

“The service now looks upon child abuse very differently and victims can expect a professional response. As a result many, many, more victims have found the confidence to report abuse, knowing they will be treated with sensitivity and respect, that we will listen to them and that we will take their allegations seriously.  

“Increased reporting means we are dealing with unprecedented number of investigations, however, I do feel that this is the tip of the iceberg.   We have to balance the right of victims of previous abuse to justice with protecting children and the vulnerable now. We are working hard with our partners in education, health services, local government and the excellent support organisations to deal with this challenge, in which we all have an essential role to play. We would all recognise there is more we have to do.”