An NGO and a Christian group on Sunday called on religious groups to establish sexual harassment policies, noting that sexually abused children took 13 years on average to seek help.

They also urged authorities to review legislation on sex offences to help encourage more survivors to come forward.

Doris Chong Tsz-wai, executive director of RainLily, said child victims of sexual abuse often took time to report their cases as it was difficult for them to immediately comprehend what had happened, especially in religious settings.

“The high authority and status of church pastors make it especially hard for a child to grasp the situation and speak out,” she said.

“Some may also be confused as to whether it was an act of harm or care … until they grow up and realise they have been taken advantage of.”