Guidance as Online Sexual Abuse Cases Rise

Our District Safeguarding Officer is sharing new guidance after cases of online sexual abuse are rising nationally.

In Septembers District Safeguarding Newsletter, Alison focused on online safety, but since the stay-at-home guidance was issued, Childline has seen an 11% increase in the number of counselling sessions about online, sexual abuse. This has increased from an average of 207 sessions per month before lockdown to an average of 230 sessions per month (NSPCC).

Alison Hill, District Safeguarding Officer said: "This issue is not going away and as children continue to have to access their education online the reality is the situation is only going to get worse.

"The NWG in association with The Marie Collins Foundation has produced two in-depth guides about online sexual abuse; one for parents and one for professionals.

"In the Guide for Parents you will find information about what online harm is and ways you can effectively help and support children.

"The Guide for Professionals has been developed to address the challenges professionals face when working with issues of online harm and young people. It contains information about what online harm is, the specific issues facing young people, and ways professionals can effectively engage with young people and their families.

"As always, I'm here if you need to discuss this or any subject relating to the safeguarding: safeguarding@sheffieldmethodist.org.uk or please call 07483 362 735."