A NEW unit dedicated to investigating non-recent child sexual abuse has been launched in England’s biggest county.

It will look at cases of abuse that happened more than a year ago at the time of reporting, focusing on institutions and organisations where suspects have been in a position of trust.

North Yorkshire’s Non-recent Abuse Investigation Team – NRAIT - is based at Fulford Road police station in York and has been set up as part of a £3m strategy to improve protection for vulnerable people.

The team is being overseen by Detective Chief Inspector Allan Harder and comprises a detective sergeant, two detective constables and four police staff investigators, with a further two investigators to be recruited.

Between them they have years of investigative experience including serious and major crimes, and investigations involving the protection of vulnerable people.

DCI Harder said: “The new team will build on their collective expertise and knowledge to provide a bespoke service to victims of what can be the most harrowing and life-changing crimes.

“We know sexual abuse is under-reported but we are now seeing an increase in reports to the police, which is a good thing, as it means that people have more confidence in the criminal justice system and more people are accessing the support that is available to them through the agencies who work alongside the police.”

He added: “We urge anyone who is the victim of sexual abuse to report it, regardless of how long ago it happened.

“We know it takes a lot of courage for people to call us or walk into a police station, but I would like to offer the reassurance that we have specially trained officers who will support you through the process as well as offering you the support provided by other agencies.”

The county's police and crime commissioner, Julia Mulligan, said: “The impact of sexual abuse can have repercussions for victims over many years. Our Supporting Victims team are dedicated to helping anyone who has suffered abuse in the past, and I would encourage people to contact them, whether or not they have reported to the police."

*If you have been raped or sexually assaulted, no matter when, call your local police on 101. If you are in immediate danger, call 999. If you prefer not to go direct to the police and you are not in immediate danger, you can contact a sexual assault referral centre (SARC) in your area. Bridge House, North Yorkshire’s SARC can be contacted on 01904-669339.