Commenting on Ann Coffey MP’s report, Real Voices: Child sexual exploitation in Greater Manchester [published tomorrow], Matthew Reed, Chief Executive

This important report tells us that child sexual exploitation can affect any young person and any community. The police and criminal justice system must do more to fight against these crimes. Winning the trust and respect of vulnerable children who currently do not feel confident to come forward and ask for help should be a priority. Local authorities and police can do more by intervening earlier to disrupt abuse. They can start by making sure that all children who run away from home – potentially because of sexual exploitation – are interviewed and supported on their return.

"The biggest weapon we have is prevention. We must equip young people with the knowledge to recognise when they are being exploited and abused, and with the confidence to seek help. This would be a major step forward in stopping these horrific offences from happening.

"The Children's Society supports vulnerable children, including victims and survivors of sexual exploitation, across the country. In Greater Manchester we look forward to playing our part in the Consortium Against Child Sexual Exploitation, which we hope will lead to better co-ordination of efforts across the city to tackle the scourge of child sexual exploitation."

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Notes to editor

For copies of the report contact Ann Coffey MP's office on 07786 357145 or 0161 483 0405.

The Children's Society has helped change children's stories for over a century. We expose injustice and address hard truths, tackling child poverty and neglect head-on. We fight for change based on the experiences of every child we work with and the solid evidence we gather. Through our campaigning, commitment and care, we are determined to give every child in this country the greatest possible chance in life.