You’ve probably come across the term ‘Child Sexual Abuse’ before, but what does it mean? The term in fact covers a wide range of situations and actions to be aware of.

When a child or young person (anyone under the age of 18) is sexually abused, they’re forced, tricked, or manipulated into sexual activities. This can be contact or non-contact abuse. Including forcing a child to view sexual content, touching a child inappropriately or exposing yourself to a child. They might not understand that what’s happening is abuse or that it’s wrong for the abuser to do this to them. They might be afraid to tell someone or behave as though this is normal for them to experience, both are valid for the child to be displaying.

Sexual abuse can happen anywhere – and it can happen in person or online.

It’s never a child’s fault they were sexually abused – it’s important to make sure children know this.

You can read more about the different types of sexual abuse online at: Sexual abuse | NSPCC, and they’re also outlined here on our website

Resources

• What is Child Sexual Abuse?
• Definitions and types of Child Sexual Abuse
• What can I do?
• Information and Support