Welsh police forces launch campaign to tackle online child abuse
In Wales there has been a 34% increase in people seeking help from the Stop It Now campaign in 2024 compared to 2023
Dyfed Powys, Gwent, North Wales and South Wales police forces are partnering with UK-wide charity the Lucy Faithfull Foundation on a campaign to stop online child sexual abuse: Stop It Now.
The campaign follows news that 275,000 people in the UK received support from Stop It Now helpline or online self-help last year.
In Wales there has been a 34% increase in people seeking help from Stop It Now in 2024 compared to 2023
Working together, the police aim to raise awareness of the scale and nature of online child sexual abuse, and how to stop it.
Detective Superintendent Wayne Bevan, Wales police lead for Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, said:
“We all know that children are spending more and more time online, and that they enjoy using the internet to play games with or talk to their friends outside of school. They should be able to do this safely and without the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
"There are a small number of adults who see popular gaming and social media platforms as a means of contacting young people"
"The amount of time it takes for an unknown person to contact a child online is shockingly quick, and our aim is to ensure children remain safe and are protected from this predatory behaviour.
“Police will always take action where offences are committed, but there is a clear benefit to prevention work and stepping in before a crime takes place."
Claire Short, Lucy Faithfull Foundation Wales Manager said:
“Online sexual offences against children continue to affect communities across Wales. People who offend in this way come from all walks of life, and there is no one type of person who engages in this behaviour.
"This campaign puts the spotlight on the issue, to raise awareness of the harm it causes and, crucially, the support we offer"
"We want people in Wales who are concerned about their online behaviours to contact us for support before it’s too late.
"We can help you find a pathway out – confidentially, anonymously and without judgement."
The campaign signposts anyone in Wales concerned about their own or someone else’s online sexual behaviour to the anonymous Stop It Now helpline to prevent child sexual abuse – before it happens.