A CHARITY has launched an urgent appeal for money after seeing a sharp rise in the number of sexual exploitation victims coming forward for help.

In the Tees area, Barnardo's worked with 166 young people in September 2013, compared to 51 during the previous September.

The charity said this was due to the development of new services in the region which had uncovered more abuse.

Nationally, a snapshot survey revealed the charity was working with 55 per cent more people than in 2012.

The charity has launched the appeal so it can help more children and young people who have experienced this crime.

The charity is looking to raise nearly £3m to ensure victims get the support they need.

Steve Oversby, director of Barnardo’s in the North-East, said: “No child should have to wait for help to get the support they need to break away from the individuals who perpetrate these appalling crimes.

“We must do all we can to ensure that expert care and specialist support is available to every young person who has been abused in this way.

“Our support workers tell us demand for our services is rapidly outstripping supply which is why we are appealing for donations to keep up with the increasing numbers of children and young people who need us now.”