Charities and other organisations who have reported an increased demand on their services following the launch of a Home Office inquiry into sex abuse claims can now bid for shares of almost £5m.

An inquiry was launched in July by Theresa May, the Home Secretary, to look into the handling of historic child sex abuse claims, including whether those claims were suppressed by "people in power".

Bidding is now open for a £2m fund available to all non-statutory organisations which have seen a surge in demand from child sex abuse survivors for their services, as a direct result of the announcement of the inquiry.

A further £2.85m is also available from the Child and Adult Victims of Sexual Abuse Support Fund to non-statutory organisations that provide support to all victims of sexual abuse, and are currently experiencing increased demand, even if that demand is not connected to the current inquiry.

The funds, which follow a 40 per cent increase in child sexual offences recorded by police in the last two years, are being administered by the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Norfolk, and supported by the Home Office.

May said: “Child sexual abuse is a despicable crime which this government is absolutely determined to eradicate. Once largely hidden, this is an issue we cannot, and must not, ignore.

“We have established a child sexual abuse inquiry to get to the truth of what has happened in the past, and ensure it can never be repeated.

“Service providers are under considerable pressure. This funding will ensure that victims of child sexual abuse receive the support they need, when they need it.

“We know more victims are coming forward and reporting the abuse they have suffered as public confidence increases that these allegations will be taken seriously, treated sensitively and pursued vigorously.”

Bids must be submitted by 2 March. To submit bids organisations must email [email protected]. More information can be found here.