MORE than 3,000 child sex offences were recorded in Greater Manchester last year.

The NSPCC is calling for better support for police tackling child abuse as the number of recorded sex offences against children in the UK reached an all-time high.

Figures show that in 2016/17 there were 3041 sex offences against children in Greater Manchester, down from 3210 in 2015/16.

Cyber sex offences against children in Greater Manchester went up from 417 to 650 from 2015/16 to 2016/17.

This means that one in five offences were flagged as having an online element, up 56 per cent on the previous year.

The NSPCC fears that the total number of sex offences committed against children is unknown, as some do not come forward out of fear or embarrassment and may not even realise they have been abused.

The NSPCC believes the national figure has increased because of improving recording methods and that survivors feel more confident in disclosing abuse following high-profile cases.

It is also believed online groomers have now become a significant problem with predators able to reach hundreds of children.

Calls are being made for the government to direct more resources to ensure high-quality training and support is available to frontline police officers to help raise awareness of safeguarding procedures nad tackle child sex offences, especially online.

The NSPCC also said it is vital that children feel able to come forward and disclose abuse.

The charity's Speak Out Stay Safe programme visits primary schools across the UK to help children learn the signs of abuse in an age appropriate way and what to do if they have been victims of such abuse.

Peter Wanless, NSPCC chief executive, said: “These abhorrent crimes can shatter a child’s life, leaving them to feel humiliated, depressed, or even suicidal. That is why it is crucial every single child who has endured abuse and needs support must get timely, thorough help so they can learn to rebuild their lives.

“These new figures suggest the police are making real progress in how they investigate sex offences against children. To help them tackle the issue going forward, we must ensure the police are equipped to work with other agencies and provide ongoing support and training to officers on the front line.”

Three of the incidents reported in Greater Manchester were committed against children under the age of one.

Abuse can be reported via the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or to Childline on 0800 1111.

In 2016/17, Childline carried out 9,452 counselling sessions with young people about sexual abuse and the NSPCC Helpline received 4,677 contacts about sexual abuse