A YORK campaign to raise awareness of child sexual abuse and exploitation is touring the city from this month.

The initiative called 'It's Not OK' is being promoted on the side of City of York Council’s refuse and recycling vehicles.

NSPCC campaigner Helen Westerman and council representative Louise Kelly launched the mobile advert at West Offices yesterday.

It's Not OK is a joint effort by the City of York Safeguarding Children Board and the NSPCC.

The year-long campaign, which began last May, aims to help parents, carers, children and the public recognise the signs of child sexual abuse and sexual exploitation.

It also provides help and advice to anyone concerned about sexual abuse, and offers age-appropriate education to children in primary and secondary schools, as well as local communities.

At its launch, MsWesterman said: “We know how difficult it can be to speak out about sexual abuse and exploitation and we hope that this campaign provides a voice to children and young people living in abusive situations.

"The NSPCC in York has a history of providing services to support children and families affected by sexual abuse and this campaign builds on the excellent work being delivered by a range of agencies across the city.”