Almost 1,400 cases of child sexual exploitation in East Anglia last year
Crime data analysed by the NSPCC shows how many cases of child sexual exploitation occurred across the three counties last year
There were almost 450 cases of child sexual exploitation in Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex last year, crime data analysed by the NSPCC shows.
Though the number of cases is down by over 300 compared to the year before, on average, there is still more than one instance of child sexual exploitation every day across the three counties.
When looking at the East of England as a whole, that number jumps to just under 2,000.
Whereas for the whole of England and Wales, there were just under 17,500 crimes logged by police where children had been sexually exploited - an average of 48 offences a day, and an increase of 10% year on year.
In an attempt to tackle child sexual exploitation, Childline, which is provided by the NSPCC, has launched a new campaigned called 'The Full Story.'
The campaign aims to encourage more children and teenagers at risk of, or suffering, child sexual exploitation to contact Childline for immediate and confidential help.
According to Childline, counselling sessions on sexual exploitation and abuse have risen by almost 300 this year. But, the charity sees this as a positive, as it means more people are coming forward for help.
What is child sexual exploitation?
Service Head at Childline, Darren Worth has described the crime as "complex" but said: "it's a type of sexual abuse where a child is manipulated into performing sexual acts, maybe after being given money, drugs, love, or affection. The important thing to remember is, there's a level of coercion within it."
Said exploitation can be perpetrated by loved ones, as well as criminal gangs.
What are the signs?
According to Mr Worth, parents should be looking to see if their child is: "being very secretive, having much older boyfriends or girlfriends, going to unusual or new place to meet friends, having new things such as clothes or mobile phones, suddenly having access to drugs or alcohol" and displaying a change in behaviour.
Where is there help?
Mr Worth also stressed: "Childline's service is a confidential one where children can feel free to speak about whatever is happening to them. If they are worried about child sexual exploitation, I would really recommend they get in touch with us."
More information can be found here.