Shocking statistics released regarding British children and online pornography

The NSPCC has released shocking figures regarding British children and their use of and exposure to online pornography.

According to a recent study, the organisation has received an average of 18,000 messages from British youngsters regarding the issue.

While almost one fifth of those who made contact with the NSPCC claim to have been upset by pornographic material they were exposed to, a worrying 12% have admitted to making a sexually explicit video.

Commenting on the horrifying figures, campaigner Esther Rantzen explains that children tend to stumble across inappropriate material when searching for romantic advice online, saying: "Young people are turning to the internet to learn about sex and relationships. We know they are frequently stumbling across porn, often unintentionally, and they are telling us very clearly that this is having a damaging and upsetting effect on them."

Determined to remedy the situation, the TV host feels that establishing an open dialogue is vital if we want to protect our children from online material, saying: "We absolutely have to talk to young people about sex, love, respect and consent as soon as we feel they are ready."

Aware that an air of mystery surrounds the topics of sex and pornography for most youngsters, Childline director Peter Liver insists that it's time to address the issue, saying: "Across society, we need to remove the embarrassment and shame that exists around talking about porn which is why we have launched a ChildLine campaign to help young people to make more informed choices."

These figure have acted as a catalyst for the establishment of classroom lessons which will focus on young people and relationships.