LANCASHIRE Police are backing a national campaign to help parents protect children from sexual abuse.

The NSPCC’s Underwear Rule campaign, which was launched this week after research showed that many parents never speak to their children about sexual abuse, aims to teach parents how to talk to children in an easy-to-understand way.

Head of public protection for Lancashire Constabulary, Detective Superintendent Ian Critchley said: “We know that for many it can be a difficult topic to broach but prevention is always better than cure and we can’t underestimate the importance of those early conversations to make children aware of the dangers.”

Anyone who is concerned that a young person in their care is being sexually exploited should contact police on 101 or the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000. Children can contact ChildLine on 0800 1111.