This Government is committed to keeping children and young people of all ages safe from abuse. Child sexual abuse is a despicable crime and I am clear that it must be thoroughly and properly investigated, and those responsible brought to justice. Last year the Government published a report on Tackling Child Sexual Exploitation which set out a comprehensive set of reforms to tackle child sexual exploitation.
Collectively these actions will strengthen accountability and leadership in professions and local government, address the culture of inaction and denial that led to victims being dismissed and ignored, improve joint working and information sharing so that agencies intervene early, strengthen the protection of children who are at risk, reinforce law enforcement efforts to stop offenders, and provide greater support for victims and survivor.
The Government has noted the recommendations of the recent Children's Society report regarding sexual exploitation of 16 and 17 year olds and has already been addressing many of the recommendations, including making sure that sentencing guidelines provide for the courts to sentence more severely where victims are particularly young and vulnerable. The College of Policing and the National Policing lead have set a requirement on forces to train all new and existing police staff to respond to child sexual abuse and exploitation.
A major transformation programme, backed by additional investment, will deliver a step change in the way children and young people's mental health services are commissioned and delivered, placing emphasis on prevention and early intervention.
Similarly the Government has already delivered a £7 million funding programme to support non-statutory organisations that have experienced a surge in demand on their services. This funding is to support the victims and survivors of sexual abuse, including children of all ages. I will continue to do everything in my power to make sure all young people are kept safe from any and all abuse.