Over 500 reports of child slavery were referred to local authorities this year, according to a national children’s charity.
A new report from the NSPCC has revealed referrals from their helpline are up 40% since 2012/13.
According to their latest figures, a total of 33,333 contacts were passed on to councils in 2015/16 – nearly 100 a day. This included 507 reports of slavery.
Their figures also revealed the charity referred over 14,000 contacts from the public concerning suspected child neglect, a 45% rise in referrals because of physical abuse and a 43% rise in contacts relating to emotional abuse.
‘These figures reveal a nation that is more alive to the issues of child abuse following recent high profile scandals and the ongoing investigation into non-recent child abuse,’ said NSPCC CEO Peter Wanless.
‘They have become increasingly concerned and aware of the tell-tale signs of abuse and neglect in children.’
‘Our helpline is an invaluable service for people worried about the safety of a young person,’ he added.
‘When people are worried, and feel they need to speak to someone, they can be reassured they will be listened to and taken seriously.’
