Theresa May, the Home Secretary, 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, 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."

She added: “This is the tip of the iceberg. 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.

“As a result, service providers are under considerable pressure.

"The funding announced today will ensure that victims of child sexual abuse receive the support they need, when they need it.”

The abuse inquiry announced by Mrs May in July is still without a chairman.

The first two women appointed had to resign over their links with establishment figures whose decisions are likely to come under scrutiny during the investigation.

Chris Grayling, the Justice Secretary, said: "It is crucial that victims of horrendous crimes like rape and sexual violence receive the specialist support they need to help them cope and recover, wherever they live and no matter whether they are victims of historical or recent abuse.

"That's why we have pledged even more money for these centres which are ideally placed to offer expert support.

"We are also working to double the £50 million we provided last year to a wide range of victims services, which will see more money than ever before spent on those who need it most."