THE number of sexual offences reported to police rose by almost 20 per cent last year.
The PSNI last night said a total of 3,864 incidents of sexual offences were reported in 2021, up by 540 on the previous year.
Police also said that the number had been steadily increasing over the past five years, with the rise in part due to more victims having the confidence to come forward.
The statistics were released as part of Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week, with the PSNI highlighting the support that is available to victims.
Detective Chief Inspector Siobhan Ennis said the theme of this week is the "silence surrounding abuse must be broken".
"As a police service we couldn’t agree more with this statement and even more people in Northern Ireland than ever before are taking that incredibly brave step to come forward and report," she said.
"As a society, we must continue to dispel harmful myths and move away from a victim blaming culture.
"This week we are asking the public to take a stand with us and say - it is not ok.
"The perpetrators of these crimes are only ever the ones at fault."
Other figures released yesterday reveal that last year there were 325 forensic medical examinations carried out at The Rowan - a specialist regional facility for anyone who has experienced sexual assault or rape - including 53 on children aged 13 years or younger.
The centre supported 620 people in 2021 - 60 per cent of whom were referred by police.
Claire Galloway, service manager, said: "We would echo the message from the police and strongly encourage anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to come forward and seek help.
"The Rowan is there for each and every person affected and will work at their pace, with their wishes at the forefront, to ensure they receive the best care possible and whatever support may be required to rebuild their lives."
