Sex abuse nightmare of problem teenagers

Nearly one in 10 young people being treated for drug and alcohol problems in Oldham has revealed they have been sexually exploited.

The figures for under 18s were released by Stockport MP Ann Coffey, who is conducting an inquiry forPolice and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd into measures to protect young people from exploitation.

Ms Coffey said the data, from Public Health England, was significant and “just the tip of the iceberg” because most children and teens are frightened to disclose sexual abuse.

In Oldham and Rochdale, nine per cent of young people receiving help for drink and drug problems admitted being sexual abuse victims - more than double the four per cent national average.

Ms Coffey said the disclosure figures could be higher because of the higher level of local awareness following the high profile sexual grooming case in Rochdale in 2012. Nine nine men, including two from Oldham, were jailed.

“These figures are just for the young people who have dared to talk about their horrific experiences. We can only imagine how many other young people are suffering in silence,” said the MP.