Shake-up for child protection units

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A Unit specifically dedicated to protecting children and teenagers approached by paedophiles online will be set up by April 2006.

As part of the British Government's planned FBI style investigation bureau, the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) the Centre for Child Protection investigations currently carried out by the National Crime Squad Unit.

As well as targeting those who distribute child abuse images or 'groom' children and teens for abuse,it will have a more public face that the current unit.

People will be able to report suspicious websites and online activity and the centre will offer information and advice to victims, it will be open 24 hours a day so people can report suspicious activity.

Around 200 people will staff the unit,drawn from the police, child welfare experts and victim support groups.

By drawing together operations under one umbrella, Home Secretary Charles Clarke said the centre would help the police do their job more effectively.



www.homeoffice.gov.uk