An NSPCC Wales / Cymru spokesman said: “This report’s damning conclusions should be a wake-up call for all those involved. That a simple unchecked mobile phone could have helped to prevent further abuse by Watkins is unthinkable, and is just one cause for significant concern among this catalogue of basic failures.
“While Watkins is now thankfully behind bars where he belongs, and improvements have already been made by South Wales Police, it’s clear that very serious mistakes were made in handling multiple early allegations and this report’s recommendations must be adopted swiftly.
“It is an incredibly difficult step to report child abuse so it is imperative that when people do speak out, they have the utmost confidence that what they are reporting will be taken seriously and acted upon immediately.
“Watkins used his status and fame as a means to commit a campaign of horrific abuse against vulnerable children. The effects of those crimes on his victims can last a lifetime and it’s crucial that they receive all available support.”
If you have any concerns at all about a child, call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk
Children can contact ChildLine on 0800 1111 or visit childline.org
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