What is Sexual Exploitation?

‘The use of children for the sexual gratification of adults. The basis of the exploitation is the unequal power and economic relations between the child and the adult. The child is exploited for his/her youth and sexuality.’ (United Nations)

  • As the definition states some sort of gain, ie money food drugs accommodation. (could also be a gain to a third party).
  • Also young people at risk of pedophile rings, or links with sex offenders. (including contact via internet, & phone).
  • Young people may be groomed by boyfriends/girlfriends (they think they are having a loving relationship) can also be groomed by family.

Should I be concerned?

  • Episodes of running away/going missing
  • Self harming behaviours
  • Excluded from school/ poor school attendance
  • Physical symptoms e.g sti’s or bruising suggestive of physical or sexual abuse
  • Unexplained clothes, money or other gifts
  • Substance, drug, alcohol abuse
  • Poor relationship with family and peers
  • Low self esteem
  • Having keys to unknown premises
  • Being contacted by unknown adults or associating with older men
  • Having more than one mobile phone or using different sim cards

The Grooming Process

  • A vulnerable young person is targeted
  • Befriending and building trust
  • Making the young person feel special and understood.
  • Entering into a relationship, building dependency while isolating them from their family/careers/school/peers.
  • Gaining control of the young person, manipulation, coercion, threats and intimidation.

Risk Indicators

  • Episodes of running away/going missing/staying out overnight.
  • History of neglect/abuse.
  • Being contacted or associating with unknown adults.
  • Unexplained expensive clothes, money or other gifts (phone/ sims).
  • Self harming behaviours.
  • Excluded from school/ poor school attendance.
  • Substance, drug, alcohol abuse.
  • Poor relationship with family and peers.
  • Low self esteem.

What help is available?

      • Contact our CAN YP Team for advice, informal chat, one to one support or groupwork.
      • Police Child Abuse Investigation Unit.
      • Refer to CPU Social services A child or young person who is suspected of suffering or being at risk of suffering sexual exploitation will by definition be a child who may be a Child in Need under the Children Act 1989 and should be referred to Children and Young People under the Referrals Procedure. Procedures Manual LSCBN May 2010.