SWIFT action is needed to prevent children who commit sexual offences turning into adult sex offenders, the NSPCC has warned.

The message follows figures showing that 37 sexual offences against children in Avon and Somerset over the past three years never went to court.

The cases were dealt with through a community resolution, which involves the victim and offender being brought together to discuss the matter.

A force spokesman said: “While sexual offences are not usually dealt with by way of community resolution, there may be some circumstances where this is the most suitable course of action - a typical example may be where a 13-year-old has squeezed the bottom of another 13-year-old.

“While we do not want to criminalise 13- and 14-year-olds who may not fully appreciate the consequences of their actions, it is important that they should realise the impact on the individual.

“In cases such as these, where the perpetrator hears how the victim felt first hand, community resolution is often a more powerful resolution and deterrent against any further victimisation.”

Jon Brown, NSPCC head of strategy and development for sexual abuse, said community resolutions can be a way forward where children and young people have shown “minor inappropriate behaviour”.

He added: “We have to question the environment in which these children and young people are growing up that has led to them behaving in this way.

“Prevention has to be the key and that is recognising warning signs early and taking swift action.

“It could be that they have seen sexual activity that they are just too young to understand and are copying what they’ve seen.

“But these children are not beyond help. If we act quickly and children receive therapy such as that provided by the NSPCC’s ‘Turn the Page’ service they can be diverted from becoming adult sex offenders.”

Mr Brown said sexual offences can have lifelong consequences for victims, who need support to overcome what has happened.

Parents can help by teaching the Underwear Rule, which states that children should never be touched in the area covered by their underwear.

Adults worried about a child or needing help and advice can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808-8005000.

Children and young people can contact ChildLine on 0800-1111.