Campaign against child sexual abuse backed in West Dunbartonshire

Both the council and the area’s Health and Social Care Partnership are backing Police Scotland’s campaign which encourages offenders to seek help.

It also raises awareness among parents of online abuse and child exploitation.

The campaign, #stopitnow, also warns offenders of the consequences of targeting young people online for a sexually motivated purpose.

Read more: Police campaign warns online child sex abusers they will be caught

Police Scotland highlight that by approaching young people for sexually motivated conversations or actions, perpetrators face losing their privacy, their family and friends, their employment and liberty, as well as having to live with the impact of their actions for the rest of their life.

Stop It Now Scotland offers a confidential and non-judgemental support service for offenders and those concerned about their thoughts or actions.

In a joint statement, Jonathan Hinds, head of children’s health, care and criminal justice for West Dunbartonshire HSCP and chair of West Dunbartonshire child protection committee, and Laura Mason, chief education officer for West Dunbartonshire Council, said: “As partners working with Police Scotland with a shared commitment to preventing child sexual abuse, We welcome the new online child sexual abuse campaign.

“National figures show from April 2018 to February 2019 there have been almost 1,600 crimes recorded where an individual has communicated with a child for sexual purposes, 70 per cent of which were detected.

“Of these, 1,600 offences, 98 were reports of grooming or attempting to groom a child for sexual purposes, 90 per cent of which were detected.

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“Whilst this campaign is specific on targeting perpetrators of online child grooming as well as potential perpetrators, Police Scotland and its partners will also continue to work together to educate children and their parents on online safety, encourage them to report such offences and ensure they are supported to stay safe from harm.”

Chief Superintendent Hazel Hendren, the local policing commander, said: “Our joint aim is to reassure the public and increase their confidence in recognising and responding to concerns about sexual abuse and the exploitation of children.”

“I urge anyone with any concerns regarding such crimes to contact us and get the help and support they need.  

“Offenders will be caught and face the consequences of their actions.”

Anyone concerned about a child or believes a child is in urgent need of help should contact Police Scotland on 101 or 999.

Alternatively, residents can call the social work area office at Clydebank on 0141 562 8800.