Commenting on an announcement by the Home Secretary of a £40 million investment in tackling child sexual abuse and child trafficking, Anne Longfield, Children’s Commissioner for England said:
“Child sexual exploitation is a damaging crime which can leave lasting scars on its child victims. Sadly, it is one which will not go away, so action to address it must be continuously maintained and the announcement of increased investment in the National Crime Agency to tackle online abuse is welcome.
It is also vital that those on the front line get the best possible guidance and support to prevent harm to children and help those who fall victim to child sexual exploitation. The establishment of national Centre of Expertise represents an important step in achieving this.
My own work tackling child abuse, which I will publish shortly, focuses on ensuring that child victims get the help and support that they need as quickly as possible.”