Charity warns Christmas the 'most dangerous' time for children at risk of sexual abuse

The IPSCC said its Christmas appeal comes as many children are to face into the festive period in a living nightmare, with Childline often their only lifeline.

Christmas is the “most dangerous” time of year for some children in Ireland, the ISPCC has warned, as new data from its Childline service shows 14 children a week contact it about sexual abuse.

Launching its Christmas appeal, the ISPCC said its Childline team spends the equivalent of 146 full days a year talking to children and young people in immediate crisis, while 300 children a year make contact about sexual abuse, involving rape, incest and being forced to watch or perform sexual acts.

Furthermore, it said 35 children and young people are in the process of trying to take their own life while in contact with the Childline team.

“Recently we learned of a case where the most heinous crimes were committed within a community and by a person in a position of trust,” director of services at ISPCC Caroline O’Sullivan said.

The bravery and courage of the children and young people who turn to Childline for support is insurmountable and it is imperative that we continue to always be there for them. By supporting our appeal, the public can help us protect children.

Coinciding with the World Day of the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence, the IPSCC said its Christmas appeal comes as many children are to face into the festive period in a living nightmare, with Childline often their only lifeline.

The charity told of an 11-year-old girl, Annie, who is one of many living in a state of “constant terror”.

“Her mother, who is actively involved in prostitution, regularly forces her to have sex with multiple men,” the ISPCC said. “She gives Annie anti-anxiety medication and brings Annie to hotels, where is she raped.” 

Other stories included a 13-year-old who was sexually exploited and blackmailed by criminals she met online, who knew her whereabouts and said they would kill her parents if she did not do what they said.

This included coercing her into creating sexually explicit videos and images.

Another child said her mother, who struggles with substance misuse, exploits her daughter to clear her constant debts by forcing her into sexual acts with older men in return for drugs.

All of them turn to Childline for help and support, and the ISPCC said grooming of children for sexual exploitation was becoming increasingly common.

While two in five who call Childline about sexual abuse have been groomed by sexual predators, it said many others are likely to have had a grooming intent.

Its Christmas campaign is being supported by actress Saoirse Ronan, who said: “It breaks my heart to know that it can be nothing but a living nightmare for many of our young people across this country. 

"Take a moment to think of all the young people in your community who could be going through this behind closed doors, alone, afraid, feeling unloved.

“I am so proud to support this appeal and urge everyone to donate whatever they can to help ensure that Childline can remain a lifeline to children this Christmas.”