Wayne Rooney urges victims of abuse to call NSPCC helpline

Wayne Rooney has urged victims of abuse to speak out

Wayne Rooney has encouraged victims of abuse to contact an NSPCC helpline set up in the wake of Andy Woodward's story.

Woodward's decision to detail the sexual abuse he suffered at the hands of coach Barry Bennell at Crewe Alexandra has prompted other ex-footballers to come forward with their own stories.

Ex-Crewe midfielder Steve Walters and former Manchester City forward David White also say they were abused by Bennell, while former England international Paul Stewart has described the abuse he suffered from an unnamed youth coach as a child over a four-year period.

The NSPCC's phone line for victims of sexual abuse in __football received more than 50 calls within hours of going live and Rooney, an ambassador for the children's charity, says help is available.

Andy Woodward talks about being abused at Crewe by youth coach Barry Bennell

"It's awful that some of my colleagues have suffered this way whilst playing the sport that I and they love," the England captain said.

"Andy has been really brave to come forward and I would encourage anyone who has or is suffering from abuse to call the NSPCC's new __football helpline.

"It's important that people know that it's okay to speak out, there is help available and that they don't need to suffer in silence."

Detective Inspector Sarah Hall of Cheshire Police says the force takes complaints of abuse very seriously and has urged victims to make contact with them

Peter Wanless, NSPCC chief executive, said: "I am delighted that Wayne has backed our helpline in support of his fellow players. He's a hero to millions, hugely admired by others at every level of the game, and I hope his words give courage to those who may be afraid of coming forward.

"We know that men are less likely to speak up about abuse, and from the response to our hotline so far it's clear that this could be the tip of the iceberg, so we are very grateful to Wayne for lending his support."

The football Association has also offered its support to victims, while chairman Greg Clarke has written to 30,000 clubs asking for "extra vigilance with regards to safeguarding and your procedures".

A new hotline for footballers who have been the victims of sexual abuse has been launched by the NSPCC. The hotline will be available 24 hours a day on 0800 023 2642.

Also See:

• Gradi releases statement
• White reveals abuse
• Ex-England player details abuse
• Abuse reported to police