CHILD cruelty cases have more than doubled in Cumbria in the last five years.

Police recorded a total of 166 cases of parents deliberately neglecting, mistreating or assaulting their children in the county in the last year, which is more than twice the 2012/13 figure of 81, and also represents an increase of 36 on last year's figure.

The NSPCC has expressed concern over the news, and pointed out that recorded police offences of this type represent only a fraction of neglect cases as social workers step in to prevent many cases escalating to the extent where an offence takes place.

The charity noted that last year 250 children in Cumbria were recorded as being on a child protection plan or a register for concerns involving neglect.

"It’s unclear exactly why the number of child neglect and cruelty offences has risen so dramatically, but greater public awareness and improvements in how police record offences could be factors, along with deeper societal issues," said NSPCC chief executive officer Peter Wanless.

“Whatever the reasons for the increase in child neglect, there is something we can all do about it now.

"We need to be aware of vulnerable children and be ready to report it to the NSPCC or the authorities if we are concerned for their safety or wellbeing."

The NSPCC are stepping up their efforts to increase awareness of the situation by launching its Light For Every Childhood’ Christmas Appeal, which it is hoped will also help raise money to support the charity's helpline, a vital service for youngsters who are often in a desperate and severely stressful situation.

“We are appealing to the generous nature of the public to support our Light For Every Childhood Christmas Appeal to help us be there for even more young people in need,” said Mr Wanless.

To donate, visit the NSPCC website at www.nspcc.org.uk.

Adults concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC helpline seven days a week on 0808 800 5000, or email help@nspcc.org.uk. The helpline is open throughout the Christmas period.