MIDDLESBROUGH Council has renewed its commitment to fighting the sexual exploitation of children after all councillors were briefed on a report at how the issue is being dealt with.

The authority has investigated the issue after the scandal in Rotherham, where social workers failed to investigate allegations of sex abuse, in an attempt to make sure the same thing does not happen in the town.

The Full Council discussed and approved an action plan compiled by the the authority's Community Safety Panel and heard that their chief executive, Mike Robinson, has become a member of the multi-agency North East Tackling Exploitation Board which is drawing up a pledge for the region's children.

The latest report, by Middlesbrough Council’s head of Safeguarding and Children’s Care Neil Pocklington, further details the challenges faced both locally and nationally.

Mark Braithwaite, independent chairman of the Middlesbrough Safeguarding Children Board, addressed Wednesday’s meeting, outlining the challenges that exist, and the role of elected members in addressing them.

Mr Braithwaite said: “Following events in Rotherham, Middlesbrough decided to take a close look at the issue here.

"Many areas have shied away from this but it was the right thing to do.

"Councillors are crucial to this agenda. It’s all about knowledge, awareness and vigilance.”

Any crime can be reported to Cleveland Police by calling 101.

Anyone who is the victim of on-going or historic sexual abuse can seek confidential specialist advice and support 24 hours a day by calling the Teesside Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 01642 516888.

For more information on the work of the Local Safeguarding Children Boards, and details of how to report instances of abuse, visit eescpp.org.uk/