I WOULD like to say a personal thank-you to all of your readers in York who have helped support the NSPCC throughout 2012.

Many people will have seen or heard about the Jimmy Savile sexual abuse inquiry in the media. As of early December, the NSPCC and the police had identified more than 450 victims of sexual abuse by Savile. Eighty per cent of these were children or young people and the offences include more than 30 rapes.

Overall, the number of contacts to the NSPCC helpline around sexual abuse, both historic and current, has nearly tripled since the Savile revelations.

Child abuse remains a widespread problem. However, many people are still not sure where to turn to or how to report their suspicions. Anyone who has a concern about a child can contact the NSPCC’s helpline for advice and support on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk

Jo Dale, NSPCC community fundraising manager for York