Child Sexual Exploitation – how to recognise the signs

Throughout this week, Warwickshire Police, Barnardo’s and Warwickshire County Council are raising awareness of child exploitation (CE).

Police are issuing advice to parents, carers and friends on recognising the signs of child sexual exploitation (CSE), ahead of the National Child Exploitation (CE) Awareness Day tomorrow (Wednesday, 18 March).

Sexual exploitation can happen to anyone regardless of where they live, what their parents or carers do for a living or what their race, religion or sexuality is.

It may be presumed that CSE only happens to vulnerable young girls, but girls and boys can be sexually exploited. 

Sexual exploitation affects thousands of children and young people every year. By knowing the tell-tale signs, we can all play an important role in reducing that number.

Look out for:

• unexplained gifts
• changes in mood
• going missing
• staying out late
• being secretive about where they are going
• lack of interest in activities and hobbies
• missing school.

Get help

It’s important to remember that there are people to help you if you or someone you know is or has been sexually exploited.

If something's not right - please speak to someone. Exploitation is never your fault and abusers can be very clever in the way they manipulate young people. It is not ok for someone to expect you, or your friends, to do something you don’t want to do sexually.

• #SaySomething – 24/7 free anonymous call or text 116 000 – www.faceup2it.org
• Help and support from Warwickshire CSE: www.warwickshirecse.co.uk
• Call the police on 101 (always dial 999 in an emergency).
• Contact Childline - call them free on 0800 1111

If you want to report a crime anonymously call Crimestoppers UK on 0800 555 111

More information about the sexual exploitation of boys and young men can be found here

The Barnardo’s ‘It’s Not on The Radar’ Report also highlights and explores how perceptions can affect identification and responses to CSE. Find and download the full report here

Issued: LK, Corporate Communications