We support thousands of children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse. We make them safe and help them recover.
What is child sexual abuse?
It involves forcing or persuading a child or young person to take part in sexual activities, whether or not the child is aware of what is happening. This includes acts that involve physical contact such as:
- assault by penetration
- non-penetrative acts (e.g. masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching)
It also includes:
- involving children in looking at (or making) sexual images
- watching sexual acts
- encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways
- grooming a child (including via the internet)
How we help
We've been supporting children and young people affected by sexual abuse since 1994. At the end of 2019/20 we were running 76 child abuse and exploitation services across the UK, including:
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therapy and counselling
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supporting children and young people through court proceedings when abusers are prosecuted
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supporting the wider family
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increasing public awareness of sexual abuse
It’s vital that adults are aware of the issue so that they can help a child who might be affected.
Emergencies and Out of Hours Support
If you think a child is in immediate danger, dial 999 or contact your local authority social care department, or the NSPCC.
If you are a child and you need help, call Childline’s 24-hour support service on 0800 11 11.
If you'd like to speak to our Supporter Relationships team during business hours, please call on 0800 008 7005 or email at [email protected]. We’re open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
If you are concerned about a Barnardo's employee, volunteer or carer, call the relevant national or regional office and speak to a Barnardo's senior manager or children's services representative.
For more information about getting help for you or somebody else, please see our Get Help page.