265 calls to Scottish child abuse helpline referred to police in last year.
NSPCC Scotland reveal 41% rise in referrals on previous year.
Last updated 18th Dec 2017
NSPCC Scotland has revealed its child abuse helpline referred 265 cases to Police Scotland in the last year.
That represents a 41 percent increase on the previous year, when referrals to authorities numbered 187.
Helpline staff advised a further 167 callers about sexual abuse against young people.
UK-wide figures have also increased, with 4,677 referrals to authorities for 2016/17 , compared to 3,578 for the previous year. John Cameron, head of helplines at the NSPCC, said:
"It is deeply worrying that so many children are potentially being exposed to such a devastating experience, but at the same time it also suggests that, as a society, we are much more alert to the risks and much more willing to come forward and share our concerns.
"Sexual abuse can do huge damage to a child's life and, left untreated, will often haunt them long into adulthood.
"It is, therefore, vital that anyone who suspects a young person is in danger contacts the authorities or gets in touch with us through our dedicated helpline."
The charity has now launched a 'Light Up Christmas for Children' appeal to help vulnerable young people over the festive period.