The charity’s survey of the 498 victims it supported at one of its 20 local bases in one day found that 76 per cent of those in the North West are looked after.
Barnardo’s chief executive Anne Marie Carrie called on councils to ensure they prioritise support for victims and action to tackle abusers.
She said: "Practice varies widely from area to area and many children are going without the protection and support they need. More work needs to be done on the ground if we are to truly make a difference to the lives of victims of this horrific exploitation, both now and in the future."
The charity has also launched an awareness drive aimed at children’s professionals, parents and young people on spotting the signs of exploitation.
Going missing, appearing with unexplained gifts and behaving in an inappropriately sexual way are among key signs.
The latest survey also revealed that five per cent of victims have a statement of special educational need and 16 per cent are disabled.
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