A sharp jump in calls about online sexual abuse to a helpline has sparked an appeal for parents to discuss internet safety with children receiving smartphones, games consoles and tablet computers this Christmas.
The NSPCC said there were 3,716 Childline counselling sessions about the issue in 2015-16 – a 24% increase on the previous year’s 2,994.
Over the past three years, the number of contacts to Childline about online sexual abuse has surged by 250%.
The category can include grooming, child sexual exploitation, sexting, being made to perform sex acts on webcam, meeting in person and viewing distressing sexually explicit content.
Some children contacted Childline because they felt trapped by their situation, because they felt guilty and ashamed, were being blackmailed or were considering a meeting in person.
The NSPCC said it was vital that parents spoke to their children about being safe online. Peter Wanless, the chief executive of the children’s charity, said: “In the last year we’ve seen a staggering rise in online sexual abuse, with many children turning to Childline when the situation has escalated.”
Advice for parents includes exploring sites and apps alongside their children, asking about things children might see that make them feel uncomfortable, and promising not to overreact.
