Potential abusers call helpline

A telephone helpline providing advice and support to people who
are concerned they may abuse children has received nearly 100 calls
in its first few months of operation.

The helpline, set up in June but only officially launched last
week, is being piloted in Surrey as part of the government’s Stop
It Now campaign to tackle child abuse. It has received calls from
across the country.

Of the 37 callers to the service – many have used it more than once
– five have either thought about sexually abusing children or have
used child pornography. The remainder have been from people who are
worried that friends and family members may be paedophiles.

The service offers confidential advice encouraging people to talk
to appropriate agencies.

The helpline number is 0808 1000 900. More information can be found
at website www.stopitnow.org.uk