A CHARITY report into child sex abuse which highlights the pressures faced by social workers tackling the problem has been welcomed by Bolton's police and crime commissioner.

Tony Lloyd said the report addresses issues in Greater Manchester and vulnerable children cannot be let down.

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children report found that caseload pressures and a lack of support are limiting the help social workers can give to children.

Mr Lloyd said: “This is a really important report that highlights the challenges in dealing with child sexual abuse and ensuring those who have contact with potential victims on a daily basis get the right support and guidance.

"But we cannot let vulnerable children down and must face up to these challenges.

“There is still a way to go and this report also highlights the need to make sure all frontline staff who work with vulnerable people have the training, confidence and support to deal with this issue, identify and support victims, and know how to access help and guidance to ensure we are doing all we can to protect children and young people.”

The findings are based on a study carried out by Coventry University with social workers, managers and safeguarding board chairs in six local authorities across England.