The number of child sex offences recorded in the UK has risen by 15% according to new figures the charity NSPCC have obtained from the police.

The statistics, obtained under Freedom of Information requests, show that of the 64,667 recorded child sexual offences,13,876 were against children aged 10 or under,2,788 were against children aged 4 or under and 193 were against babies under the age of 1.

1 in 10 offences were flagged as having an online element, a 59% increase on the previous year.

The charity says a  number of factors could have contributed to the rise, including,police forces improving recording methods as well as children and young people feeling more confident in disclosing abuse following high-profile cases.

The figures also suggest that online groomers are becoming a significant problem as perpetrators are able to reach hundreds of children.

The charity are calling on government to ensure training and support is available to frontline police officers to help raise awareness of safeguarding procedures and tackle child sex offences, especially online.

NSPCC Chief Executive Peter Wanless said:

“This dramatic rise is extremely concerning and shows just how extensive child sexual abuse is.

“These abhorrent crimes can shatter a child’s life, leaving them to feel humiliated, depressed, or even suicidal. That is why it is crucial every single child who has endured abuse and needs support must get timely, thorough help so they can learn to rebuild their lives.

“These new figures suggest the police are making real progress in how they investigate sex offences against children. To help them tackle the issue going forward, we must ensure the police are equipped to work with other agencies and provide ongoing support and training to officers on the frontline.”

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