Child Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation is a form of abuse that involves children and young people under 18 being forced or manipulated into sexual activity in exchange for money, gifts, accommodation, affection or status.

The abuser 'grooms' the victim by pretending to be a friend and winning the child's trust. Sometimes drugs or alcohol are involved. The grooming process may continue over a long period before the abuse starts. The abuse is based on an imbalance of power between victim and abuser, which limits the victim's choices. This form of sexual exploitation is often misunderstood and viewed as consensual, but no child under 18 can consent to their own abuse. 

Sexual exploitation may start through online befriending as well as through face to face meetings.
 

Signs of sexual exploitation

Recognising sexual exploitation can be difficult, as some of the warning signs can be mistaken for 'normal' teenage behaviour.

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) advises parents, teachers, carers and others involved in the care of young people to be alert to the following signs and symptoms:

• inappropriate sexual or sexualised behaviour
• repeat sexually transmitted infections and, in girls, repeat pregnancy, abortions or miscarriage
• having unaffordable new things (clothes, mobile) or expensive habits (alcohol, drugs)
• going to hotels or other unusual locations to meet friends
• getting in or out of different cars driven by unknown adults
• going missing from home or care
• having older boyfriends or girlfriends
• associating with other young people involved in sexual exploitation
• truancy, exclusion, disengagement with school or leaving education altogether
• unexplained changes in behaviour or personality (chaotic, aggressive, sexual)
• drug or alcohol misuse
• getting involved in crime
• injuries from physical assault, physical restraint, sexual assault

This is not an exhaustive list, and you can read more on the NSPCC's Child Sexual Exploitation webpage.

Parents and carers can also find further information and support on the PACE (Parents Against Child Sexual Exploitation) website.
 

Raising a concern about a child

If you think a child or young person is in immediate danger, contact the police and/or our Contact, Advice and Assessment Service. Even if you are unsure about your suspicions, please do contact us.

We will take your concerns seriously and help you decide on the best action. If we think the child is at risk, we will take action to ensure the safety of the child or young person.