Child sexual exploitation
Sexual exploitation is a horrific form of sexual abuse that affects thousands of children and young people every year in the UK. It can happen to any young person from any background and affects boys and young men as well as girls and young women.
Many victims of child sexual exploitation have been groomed by an abusing adult, who will befriend them and make them feel special by buying gifts or giving them lots of attention. Victims are targeted both in person and online.
Some young people - in particular those having difficulties at home, those truanting or excluded from school, those who regularly go missing from home or care, or those in care - may be more vulnerable to exploitation.
Eastenders: Whitney’s story
The topic of child sexual exploitation was highlighted in 2011 by a special mini-episode of Eastenders. Watch the clip below:
The BBC also posted a behind-the-scenes clip showing how they researched this storyline, which formed part of their Red Nose Day 2011 special. You can watch this clip online, where you can also find links to related help and information and read a special focus of child sexual exploitation, which was posted by Red Nose Day.
Information for parents/carers
A factsheet aimed at parents/carers explaining what child sexual exploitation is, how it can happen and what parents or carers can do to prevent child sexual exploitation or seek help if they are concerned about the safety of a child/young person can be downloaded from this page.
Also, there is a free half day conference to learn more about what is child sexual exploitation, how it happens and the important role you play in keeping children and young people safe. The conference, called 'If you can't rule it out, rule it in', takes place on Wednesday 22 February 2012.
Publications
This leaflet is for professionals explaining the reasons why children are trafficked and outlining the support and services available from the NSPCC's National Child Trafficking Advice and Information Line (CTAIL). Includes a brief case study of 14-year-old Van, who was trafficked from South East Asia to the UK.
This leaflet is for social workers explaining why children are trafficked and offering advice on how to respond to child trafficking concerns.