spotting the signs of cse

There are many ways we can spot the signs that a young person may be being sexually exploited, but even when young people present numerous indicators, it does not always mean they are being exploited.

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF WARNING SIGNS THAT COULD SUGGEST THAT A CHILD (UNDER 18) IS BEING, OR IS AT RISK OF BEING, SEXUALLY EXPLOITED. THESE COULD INCLUDE:

• Frequently going missing from home or school
• Going out late at night and not returning until morning
• Being picked up in cars by unknown adults
• A significantly older boyfriend, girlfriend or friend
• Unexplained money, possessions, mobile phone credit or a new mobile phone
• Changes in behaviour, for example becoming secretive or aggressive
• Increased use of mobile phone and/or internet activity
• Involvement in criminal activity
• Regularly going out and drinking alcohol and/or taking drugs

THIS IS WHY WE NEED TO TAKE INTO ACCOUNT LOW, MEDIUM AND HIGH-LEVEL INDICATORS AND THE NATURAL AND ADDITIONAL VULNERABILITIES PRESENTED.

Natural Vulnerabilities

• Taking risks
• Experimenting with alcohol, drugs and sexuality
• Rebelling against parents/carers
• Staying out later
• Meeting new people
• Ignoring good advice
• Rejecting authority
• Being vulnerable to flattery
• Being secretive
• Peer pressure