NSPCC Cymru/ Wales Policy and Public Affair Manager, Vivienne Laing said: “The report’s findings sadly do not surprise us. We deliver many Childline counselling sessions on bullying and peer sexual abuse in educational settings, and we see that girls and LGBTQ+ children are disproportionately affected.
“This is a society wide problem, exacerbated by social media, and it is everyone’s responsibility to address it. Schools cannot do it alone. Government, local authorities, charities, youth groups, communities, parents, and families need to act together to eliminate it.
“One key tool for tackling sexual harassment is good quality inclusive Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE). Teachers must feel confident to talk openly with their pupils about bullying, harassment, or abuse. They need to be able to challenge comments and behaviours to build respectful and inclusive cultures.
“Dedicated investment is needed to ensure that RSE leads and teachers delivering it have the training and support they need to deliver first class RSE in schools from September.”
To get in contact with the Report Abuse in Education helpline call 0800 136 663, or email
NSPCC urges anyone with concerns about a child, even if they’re unsure, to contact the NSPCC helpline to speak to one of the charity’s professionals. Call 0808 800 5000.
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