A CHILDREN'S protection charity says sexual abuse victims must "feel confident that if they speak out they will be listened to", after a paedophile was jailed last week.

Nigha Hussain, 48, of Court Road in Birmingham was charged with seven counts of indecent assault, three counts of attempted rape of a child and indecency with a child.

He was sentenced to 18 years in prison, at Bradford Crown Court last Thursday (July 29), following a nine-day trial and a unanimous guilty verdict.

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It related to the sexual abuse of a primary-aged girl more than 20 years ago in Bradford.

The victim came forward more than a decade after the abuse ended and the NSPCC says it is crucial those who have been subjected to sexual abuse feel they will be listened to, if they speak out.

A spokesperson for the chairty said: “The victim in this case has lived for more than two decades with the devastating impact of being abused as a young girl by Hussain.

"We hope that through coming forward and seeing her abuser face justice, she will find some comfort and closure and be able to move forward with her life.  

“It is so important that those who have been subjected to sexual abuse feel confident that if they speak out they will be listened to and allegations will be investigated, no matter how much time has passed.

“Anyone who has experienced abuse in childhood or is concerned about a child can contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or email help@nspcc.org.uk. Children can contact Childline on 0800 1111.”