Posted by NHS Choices on July 25, 2018 · Leave a Comment
It can be difficult to know whether a child is being abused, as the abuser may be secretive about their actions. In this video, aimed at parents and carers, a child sex abuse consultant from the Marie Collins Foundation explains what to do if you think a child is being harmed, and how to discuss the subject of abuse with a child.
Editor’s Note: Video Highlights
Child sexual abuse is any sexual behaviour directed towards children…by adults, male and female, and by young people themselves.
Child Sexual Abuse Involves Activities Ranging from:
- Voyeurism
- to rape of children
- and now involves sexual behavior online
What Do We Need to Know
- 1 in 6 young adults reported being sexually abused before age 16 (results of recent UK study)
- Very few (~25%) tell anyone due to extensive guilt
- Impact can be extensive
Signs to look for
- Acting out in an inappropriate sexual way with toys/objects
- Nightmares/sleeping problems
- Withdrawing or becoming clingy
- Personality changes or regressing to younger behaviors
- Unaccountable fear of particular places or people
- Outbursts of anger
- Changes in eating habits
- Physical signs
- Becoming secretive
How Do We Handle This
- If someone makes you uncomfortable around your child, and you suspect someone is abusing your child – call a helpline and talk to someone
- UK: 0808 1000 900
- US & Canada: 800-422-4453
- Australia: 1 800 55 1800
Talk to your child - adjust the conversation to their age
- try not to act shocked – be reassuring
- try not to interrupt other than to check that the child is alright
- let them know you will keep them safe, but you will need to bring in help – the police or children’s services – to do that.
It’s a big step to make that call and accuse someone and we often hesitate – but if you don’t – know that the abuse will continue and the child or children could be affected for the rest of their life.
Additional UK Resources:
- Childline: 0800 1111
- NSPCC National Child Protection Helpline: 0800 8005000
- Child Exploitation and Online Protection: www.ceop.police.uk/report-abuse
From www.nhs.uk
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