Expert Reveals Concerns Over New Research

Statistics from the NSPCC which show that around 64 children are sexually abused in England and Wales every day must be a wake-up call on tackling the issue, according to an expert at Irwin Mitchell.

The organisation’s figures have revealed that the number of offences of child sex abuse recorded in 2009-10 were eight per cent higher than the previous 12 months, with a quarter of abusers found to be under 18.

It also revealed that 86 per cent of attacks were on females, while the largest number of offences was seen in London, the West Midlands and West Yorkshire.

Experts at Irwin Mitchell represent a number of people whose lives have been torn apart by child abuse, helping them seek justice over the terrible problems they have suffered and provide support as they look to rebuild their lives.

Sarah Griggs, a specialist in child abuse claims at Irwin Mitchell’s London office, said: “It is shameful that the number of recorded cases is on the rise.

“A reaction is desperately needed following the release of these new figures from the NSPCC and I hope that they are seen as a wake-up call for authorities in relation to the clear dangers many youngsters face.

“Child abuse of any kind has a devastating impact on so many people and it is truly heartbreaking to see first-hand how it can affect lives, leaving a number of youngsters feeling scared and alone.

“Improvements need to be seen in efforts to cut the number of cases, while we also hope work can be done to provide an improved support network to victims who are desperate to rebuild their lives.

“Every effort needs to be made to ensure that the problems faced by so many children do not happen to anyone else.”