NSPCC: Support and advice about sexual behaviour vital
Jon Brown, NSPCC head of strategy and development for sexual abuse, believes more could be done to prevent sexualisation of children.
“I am pleased the government is taking a proactive role in addressing the ‘creep of sexualisation’ in children’s lives. We know from our work that sexualised images can encourage and further disinhibit some adults and young people who are at risk of abusing children.
“We particularly welcome the proposals to make the blocking of web and mobile-phone pornography easier.
“But measures to try to prevent children from seeing sexual images are not the only answer. Children and young people need support and advice about sexual behaviour which could put them at risk, such as posting sexy pictures of themselves on the internet.
“It’s clear children want information which is relevant to their own lives and experiences. Sex and relationships is one of the most popular topics on ChildLine’s website information pages and postings to its message boards.
“The NSPCC would like to see the government take on board Bailey’s findings as part of its review of Personal Health and Social Education (PHSE). We think more could be done to weave advice about sex and healthy, positive relationships into the fabric of children’s lives through good quality support and advice in schools.
“Parents, schools, government and industry all have a role to play in making sure children are not exposed to the risk of harm by viewing and copying adult sexual content.”
