Exploitation

Exploitation is a form of abuse where someone is groomed, then forced or made to do things for the benefit of others.

Exploitation can happen to anyone, regardless of their gender, ethnicity or social background.

There are different types of exploitation, such as:

  • criminal exploitation
  • sexual exploitation
  • human trafficking
  • online grooming

Signs of exploitation

Knowing the signs of exploitation can help you recognise and report it. These can include a child or young person:

  • going missing from school or home
  • changing their behaviour at school and receiving lower than expected school results
  • leaving home or care without explanation
  • not being able to explain why they've received money, clothes, shoes or other gifts
  • receiving a higher-than-normal amount of phone calls or messages
  • associating with a new group of people instead of their usual friends
  • having a relationship with an older person or group of people that control their behaviour
  • using new and inappropriate words
  • carrying weapons
  • coming home with injuries
  • self-harming or appearing sad and uninterested

Our Grooming and Consent booklet provides more information.

The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) also provide advice on the types of exploitation and what to look out for.

How to report exploitation

If exploitation is happening to you or someone you know, we can help. Please call us on 0121 704 8021.

If you would rather make a referral online, the CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command) can connect you to a child protection officer.

Make a report with the CEOP

Professionals

The Exploitation and Missing team support children and families when children are reported missing and / or where there are concerns a child may be at risk of or being exploited.

Some of the support offered by the team includes

  • Offer of a return home conversation when a child has been found following a missing episode
  • Direct work with a child to provide information and resources to reduce risks of going missing and / or being exploited
  • Support to parents and carers through an offer of direct work as a key person in keeping a child safe where harm is identified outside the home
  • Direct work around exploitation and exploitation awareness to groups within schools

Training and resources

You can access resources including booklets, posters and videos around grooming and consent at our Safeguarding Solihull site.

Safeguarding Solihull Resources

You can also find advice from: