Why do we need to know about child sexual abuse?

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It is only in recent years that we have come to appreciate the true scale of the sexual abuse of children. The secrecy surrounding child sexual abuse is evident in the fact that only a quarter of children who are sexually abused tell anyone about it. Of these,
most tell a family member or friend. Very few come to the attention of police, social services or health professionals.

The harm sexual abuse causes to children can be profound, not just to their emotional and physical development, but also to their trust in adults, especially if their abuser is someone they love. The sooner abuse is identified, the sooner the healing process can begin for all concerned.

We can protect children by learning how to be alert to warning signs in the behaviour of a would-be abuser and knowing what action to take. Sound information helps us recognise these signs and take action to stop dangerous behaviour in ourselves and
people we know. Just as the campaign against drink driving has enabled us to challenge someone who is drinking and planning to drive, so information and advice can help us act if we suspect someone we know might be sexually interested in children.