A CHILD sexual exploitation review has identified nearly 40 suspected victims and 13 missing people in Hampshire.

Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Hayes commissioned a multi-agency review into exploitation in October to identify cases of historic abuse, as well as re-examine earlier investigations.

Hampshire Constabulary issued a series of messages to the public encouraging them to share their experience and offered reassurance that support is available for victims.

As a result of the new cases the review has been expanded and will last for up to five years, while more staff have been drafted in to help.

Mr Hayes said: “Protecting victims of child sexual exploitation has been a priority throughout this review.

“Initially due to last six months, it quickly became clear that more cases were emerging as a result of victims having the confidence that their experience would be taken seriously.

“It became clear that we needed to extend both the timeframe and team to allow the constabulary to respond to these often complex investigations.

“As is the case with other similar investigations being undertaken by other police forces, non-recent cases of child sexual exploitation are expected to be a growth area for the next four to five years.

“As we understand more about the scale of non-recent sexual abuse, it will be critical for any lessons learned from the way cases were initially investigated to be taken into account, so that victims feel protected and supported and receive justice as soon as possible.”

Anyone who feels they are a victim of exploitation can call Hampshire Police on 101.