MORE than 1,000 cases of non-recent sexual abuse against children have been recorded by Cheshire Police over the past four years, figures obtained by the NSPCC have revealed.

The number of recorded offences involving non-recent sexual abuse – where the offence is alleged to have occurred more than a year before it was reported to police – has increased from 207 in 2013/14 to 361 in 2016/17, totalling 1,068 cases for the four-year period.

The figure is the lowest recorded total in the north west, with Greater Manchester recording the highest total with 5,212 cases.

Across the UK the number of cases has increased each year, from 10,493 in 2013/14 to 20,410 in 2016/17.

The new non-recent sexual offences figures were obtained following a Freedom of Information request to police forces in England and Wales and British Transport Police. Figures were also provided by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Six UK police forces did not provide full figures for all four years.

Peter Wanless, chief executive of the NSPCC, said: “It doesn't matter whether the sexual abuse happened a year ago or 50 years ago, it is never too late to report it.

“It's clear that for far too long, many people who suffered horrendously as children felt they could not speak up, were not believed or did not know who to turn to.

“Although these rising figures paint a worrying picture of widespread abuse, it is encouraging that so many are finally finding their voice in a climate today where they know they will be listened to and supported.”

“What's important now is survivors of abuse receive the support they need and that the people who carried out these vile offences are identified and finally brought to justice.”

The children’s charity believes this steep rise may, in part, be down to high-profile abuse cases as well as the football abuse scandal which began a year ago this week and has seen a dedicated NSPCC Helpline receive more than 2,500 calls.

The NSPCC hope the increase in cases recorded by police will reassure survivors they will be listened to and will see law enforcement taking swift action to bring the perpetrators to justice.

It is also encouraging people who need advice about reporting abuse they suffered in the past to contact its Helpline, or if they are 18 or under to go to Childline.

As well victims of past abuse being able to seek support from the NSPCC, the National Association of People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) has trained staff who can speak with survivors of childhood abuse and explore the options available to them such as support groups and counselling.

NAPAC also supports the family and friends of people who are helping someone who was abused.

Any adult who is the victim of non-recent abuse is urged to report it to the police or contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 for advice and support. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.