SEX offences against children in Hampshire have increased by 23 per cent, new figures reveal.

Research by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) found the crimes against children and young people rose from 1,734 in 2014/15 to 2,134 in 2015/16 – an average of six children a day.

Of that figure, a total of 659 crimes were recorded against children aged 10 and under; child sex offences recorded included rape, sexual assault, and sexual exploitation.

The charity put the sharp rise down to several factors, including police forces improving crime recording methods; survivors feeling more confident in disclosing abuse following high-profile cases and online grooming becoming a major problem with predators reaching multiple children.

To cope with the numbers of children coming forward, the NSPCC is calling for specialist training for police investigating online child abuse, effective rehabilitation for child sex offenders, and investment in early intervention services to help children recover.

However, whilst the charity says the latest figures are shocking, it is concerns the total number of sex offences committed against children could be a lot higher due to children not coming forward because they are frightened, embarrassed, or do not realise that they have been abused.

Through its Speak Out Stay Safe programme, the NSPCC is teaching a generation of children about the signs of abuse and who they can turn to for help and support.

Last year NSPCC volunteers delivered the service to 110 schools in Hampshire and spoke to 11,034 children.

One of those school was Halterworth Primary School, Romsey. Children were taught about understanding abuse in all its forms; recognising the signs of abuse; knowing how to protect themselves and how to get help. Southampton Football Club legend Matt Le Tissier was joined the charity's volunteers to help educate the children.

Emma Aked, schools area coordinator for Hampshire, said: “This steep rise lays bare just how extensive this appalling crime against children has become, claiming multiple victims every hour, some of whom are yet to say their first word.

“Sexual abuse can shatter a child’s life and leave them feeling ashamed, depressed, or even suicidal. Now, more than ever, victims need help as soon as possible to help them recover from their ordeals and go on to lead full and happy lives.

“Government must commit funds to early intervention that better help these children who through no fault of their own are enduring so much pain.”

For more information, or to contact the NSPCC call 0800 1111 or visit: childline.org.uk.