AN anonymous and free phone line set up to support victims of child sexual exploitation (CSE) has been launched.

It is aimed at encouraging more people to report their experiences and seek help.

The 24-hour phone and SMS helpline has been created as part of a wider campaign, called Say Something.

CSE is a form of child abuse in which victims are manipulated or forced into taking part in a sexual act, often in return for attention, affection, money, drugs, alcohol or accommodation.

As well as being aimed at young people, the helpline is also for those who may have concerns about the safety of one of their friends or family members.

It is hoped many more offenders can be caught and future crimes prevented, by raising awareness and educating people about the signs of CSE.

In March, Avon and Somerset Constabulary and Wiltshire Police secured £1million from the Home Office for a cross-border response to the issue aimed at identifying and supporting victims of CSE.

It is also aimed at helping organisations to share information to disrupt crime.

Detective chief inspector Simon Crisp, force lead for CSE, said: “CSE is something that can affect young people from all walks of life and any community.

“This anonymous, free helpline will allow victims and any young people with concerns to pick up the phone and talk to somebody for help and support."

The Say Something helpline can be reached on 116000.

Any parents or adults with concerns about a young person or CSE can contact the NSPCC on 080880-05000.

Advice and support is also available from the charity PACE (Parents Against Child Sexual Exploitation) 01132-405226 or via paceuk.info To report concerns to the police call 101 or complete a secure online reporting form at avonandsomerset.police.uk/report In an emergency, or if a child is in immediate danger, always call 999.

For information about the signs of child sexual exploitation visit avonandsomerset.police.uk/cse