03 Feb 2017
We must build resilience in young people and educate them about sexual relationships
Research by the charity Barnardo's has highlighted increases in recorded cases of children committing sexual offences against other children in England and Wales between 2013 and 2016.
National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Child Protection, Chief Constable Simon Bailey said:
"We believe we can attribute these increases to more awareness and greater victim confidence. We also have to look at the possibility that more abuse is being perpetrated and if technology is facilitating this.
"These figures highlight the importance of building resilience in young people and educating them about sexual relationships. This can’t be left to chance.
"I know from my own force that we are engaging with schools more than ever to educate and raise awareness of both the different forms of abuse and how to get support. It is clear from the increase in the number of reports we are receiving how vital this work is."
Contact information
Communications office
By phone: 0800 538 5058
By email: press.office@npcc.police.uk