Hundreds of Aberdeen schoolchildren will be shown how to spot the signs of abuse today as part of a nationwide crackdown on sex offences.
NSPCC Scotland staff and Donside MSP Mark McDonald will visit Danestone Primary as part of the charity’s Speak Out, Stay Safe project.
Over the last five years the scheme has shown more than 180,000 Scottish children to think about abuse, identify it and, ultimately, speak out about it.
In 2015/16 there were 4,368 recorded sexual offences against children in Scotland, almost double the total recorded in 2011/12.
Danestone is one of 18 primary schools in Aberdeen which has received the service since August 2016, joining a further 64 in Aberdeenshire.
Heather Whyte, the charity’s schools service area co-ordinator for the north-east and Shetland, said: “Research indicates that on average at least two children in every classroom of every primary school in the UK are being abused, neglected or bullied.
“By reaching children at primary school age, we can prevent abuse starting and intervene earlier to minimise its long-term, devastating impact.”
Mr McDonald, who is also the Scottish Minister for Childcare and Early Years, said: “The wellbeing and safety of children and young people in Scotland is a key priority for the Scottish Government.
“All children and young people have the right to be cared for, protected from harm, and to grow up in a safe environment in which their rights and needs are respected.”