A WEBSITE is helping Gwent Police to crackdown on cases of internet child abuse by encouraging victims to report online.

The Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP) centre website was set up three years ago with the sole purpose of eradicating the sexual abuse of children.

Victims of abuse and people who suspect others of child abuse can use the site to report their concerns and the information is then passed on to the appropriate force.

Since the website was established, Gwent Police has received a steady stream of referrals, many of which have led to convictions. In 2006/07, there were 23 referrals, in 2007/08 30 referrals and so far 2008/09 there have been 25. From the 30 referrals in 2007/08, there were 15 convictions.

DC Sam Elliott, who is Gwent Police’s CEOP point of contact, said over the past six months there has been around four convictions, as a result of CEOP referrals.

She said: “Child abuse is one of the worst crimes imaginable committed against children at such a vulnerable stage of their life. It’s something that affects them for the rest of their life. The job that CEOP does is fundamental in preventing this sort of abuse.”

Following up CEOP referrals does not just involve investigating suspects, but also reassuring and interviewing the victims of abuse. Investigations can also involve teamwork between different forces as the offences take place over internet, where the suspect and victim could be in completely different areas.

DC Elliott raising awareness of the CEOP site and the work the team of police, social workers and psychologists do, is key to preventing child abuse.

Earlier this year, officers visited schools all over Gwent to talk to children about the work CEOP does and raise awareness about internet safety.

For more information visit www.ceop.gov.uk