NSPCC enlists schools’ help to tackle child sex abuse

SCHOOLS across the UK and Channel Islands are being asked to help spread the word about the NSPCC's "Don't Hide it" campaign against sexual abuse.

The leading child protection charity is distributing free information cards to schools to give out to all pupils aged 11 to 15.

The cards carry the message that if young people are suffering sexual abuse in silence, they do not have to hide it any more.

Key contact points are listed, including ChildLine 0800 1111 and the NSPCC's website www.donthideit.com, where pupils can read about other young people's experiences and get advice. Since the campaign launched on 14 May, the site has received 200,000 visitors, the majority between 4pm and 7pm.

Peter Liver, NSPCC divisional director of children’s services for Midlands & West, said: "We hope the cards will give young people the information they need to speak out or take the next step towards ending the abuse if it happens to them, or someone they know.

"By everyone working together, we can make sure young people know they have someone to turn to.

"The NSPCC runs therapeutic services for children who have suffered all types of abuse. The majority of the requests for these services - nearly 3,000 a year - are sex abuse-related and demand is more than can be met. The NSPCC relies on the continued generosity of supporters, volunteers and donors to continue to provide such vital services."

As part of the campaign, the NSPCC is holding “Speak Out Sundays” on 11 and 18 June via approximately 40 radio stations across the UK such as Capital and Leicester Sound.on June, to encourage children and young people to speak out on all forms of sex abuse. Two ChildLine helpline counsellors will also be in the radio station studios on Sunday to take calls. Celebrity guest callers will include former boxer Kevin Lueshing and American author Torey Hayden. More details are available on www.donthideit.com.