News

School sex attacks on the increase in London

A dramatic rise in rapes and sexual assaults in London schools has been reported by the Metropolitan Police.

The figures show there were 15 rapes during 2008/9, five more than the previous year. Alleged rapes were also up, from 20 to 32 during the same period.

During 2008/9, 180 sexual assaults took place, 21 more than the previous year, and 246 sexual assault allegations were made, an increase of 23 since 2007/8.

Over the past five years there have been 810 sexual assaults and 65 rapes on school premises.

Commander Mark Simmons, head of the Metropolitan Police's violent crime directorate, said the force is now carrying out a review into the rise.

He added that the majority of cases involve attacks on girls and a small minority of allegations involved consensual sex between an underage boy and girl. Often in these cases a prosecution is not pursued as it is not in the public interest.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here


More like this

Hertfordshire Youth Workers

“Opportunities in districts teams and countywide”

CEO

Bath, Somerset