Young victims need more help

Published on Sunday 19 July 2009 22:15

SEXUALLY abused children are struggling to recover from their ordeal because of a shortage of therapy services, a leading children's charity has claimed.

The NSPCC estimates there are 5,188 children and young people in Scotland who have been sexually abused and are seeking therapy. But new research indicates there are only 134 therapeutic services available to meet this need.

NSPCC researcher Debbie Allnock said: "Sexual abuse can have devastating consequences for a child, but but there seems to be no explicit recognition of the needs of children and young people who are, or have recently been, sexually abused.

"It takes bravery for a young person to tell someone about their sexual abuse and ask for help but their suffering may only get noticed when they show significant signs of distress or damaging behaviours. They may then have a long wait for the support they desperately need."