THE number of allegations of inappropriate behaviour by those working with children in Wirral have rocketed, with almost 200 complaints made last year.

Shocking figures show 179 allegations of sexual, physical or emotional abuse, or neglect, of children by workers were made to Wirral Safeguarding Children Board in 2013.

The complaints – up from just three in 2006 and 40 on 2012 – were made against people who work in a position of trust with children.

The board’s annual report for 2013-2014 admits “allegations regarding sexual concerns have nearly doubled”, although points out the majority relate to “non contact offences” including “inappropriate electronic social contact”.

It also points to an increase in awareness of complaint procedures as to the reason why allegations have increased so dramatically.

The review shows 86 complaints of physical abuse were made during 2013, 45 of sexual abuse, 23 of emotional abuse and 23 of neglect.

Around 90 of those complaints were found to be “unsubstantiated” while more than 40 were “founded”, according to the report.

Other allegations are still being investigated by Merseyside Police and the Crown Prosecution Service.

Statistics show complaints – which are made to the safeguarding organisation’s Local Designated Officer for Allegations (LADO) – have risen dramatically in recent years.

While 179 allegations were made in 2013, just three were made in 2006, 16 in 2007 and 53 in 2008.

Agencies will be hoping to reduce this figure this year, with a particular focus on “inappropriate electronic social contact” from email and social media.

The report states: “There is a steady increase in the number of allegations reported to the LADO

“During the period 2012 to 2013 there has been a 28.7% increase in allegations which, following initial consultation, have met the threshold to be opened as an Allegation against a Professional case.”

Such cases have been referred from 134 different agencies or departments and represent allegations in relation to professionals from 159 different settings.

The report adds: “It is suggested that this does not reflect an increase in instances of inappropriate behaviour, rather that awareness of the procedures and role of the LADO has significantly improved. “

For each referral that led to a complaint being investigated, four cases were closed after preliminary investigations.

Bernard Walker, independent chairman of Wirral Safeguarding Children’s Board said:“It is important to note that the sharp increase in these figures does not necessarily represent an increase in incidents of abuse.

"Since 2006, all agencies have become much more aware of their responsibilities in reporting and responding to any allegations of abuse and are also better trained and informed with regards to identifying concerning behaviour.

“All agencies are monitored closely by Wirral Safeguarding Children’s Board to ensure that they have the right policies and procedures in place and are responding appropriately to any alleged abuse.”