Cash boost for sexual abuse support groups in London

Respond will receive £213,000 for their work supporting children and young people with learning difficulties or physical disabilities who have been subject to abuse. Meanwhile, Mosac will get £208,000 to work with five- to 11-year-olds.

Brook London and Step Up will each get £216,000 and £161,000 respectively to expand their counselling services.

Between them the four groups will work in 18 of London's 33 boroughs.

Paul McCannah, chair of London Council's grants committee, said: "I believe we have used this funding to help ensure children and young people in London who are victims of abuse are provided with the care and support they need to enable them to come to terms with their experience and to rebuild their lives."