The signs of Child Sexual Exploitation

You may suspect that a child is being sexually exploited or have seen something that worries you. 

The following are possible indicators of child sexual exploitation - the list is not exhaustive but might help with spotting the signs:

 - Children under 13 years asking for sexual health advice

 - Unexplained amounts of money, expensive clothing and other items

 - Relationships with controlling adults

 - Isolation from peers and social networks

 - Peers involved in sexual exploitation

 - Disclosure of assault followed by withdrawal of a reported incident

 - Multiple callers (unknown adults/older young people)

 - Staying out late or episodes of being missing overnight or longer 

 - Evidence or suspicion of physical or sexual assault

 - Unplanned pregnancy and/or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

 - Drugs/alcohol misuse

 - Entering leaving vehicles/driven by unknown adults

 - Exclusion or unexplained absences from school or college

 - Concerning use of the internet/mobile phone

For more information on spotting the signs visit Warning signs that a child is being sexually abused or exploited

What can I do?

Talk to them and start the conversation

Starting the conversation can be one of the most difficult things to do if you think that your child, or a child that you care, for has been, or is at risk of being, sexually exploited. This can be more difficult if the offender has 'befriended' your child.

It is important that you talk to them and start a conversation Be supportive Above all else, make sure you tell your child that, whatever has happened, it’s not their fault, that you believe them and that you are on their side.

Listen to your child, don’t judge them. Plan what you’re going to say Think about how you are going to initiate the conversation and what you want to ask.

It’s also worth thinking about how your child might react to your questions and what you will do or say to reassure them.

Choose the when and where carefully Pick a private, quiet place where you won’t be interrupted or overheard. A place where your child can say as much or as little as they like or get as upset as they want, without feeling like anyone else is watching or listening.

Stay calm Child sexual exploitation is a hugely upsetting subject, but try to stay calm when talking to your child. It can influence how much they choose to tell you.

Be direct but gentle Make sure your child knows exactly what you’re asking them but be gentle about it. Avoid questions that might feel too personal such as ‘What happened?’ and instead focus on how they are feeling now.

Use language your child will understand Terms like ‘sexual exploitation’, ‘manipulate’ and ‘coerce’ might go over your child’s head. So try to use simpler terms that they’ll understand. For example, ‘keeping safe’, ‘trick’, ‘force,’ or ‘take advantage of’.

Barnardo's Nightwatch Hotline

Barnardo’s Nightwatch Hotline is an anonymous service to support the fight against Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE).

They provide a service for anyone to report suspicions or concerns about CSE 100% anonymously.

The information will be passed on to the police and nobody (including the police) will know who has reported the crime.

You can give information anonymously by clicking here, or by calling 0800 389 0131.

Barnardo's Nightwatch Hotline is powered by the charity Crimestoppers.

You can choose to opt for Crimestoppers to keep in contact with you, whilst you remain completely anonymous. This enables them to ask any further questions about the information you have provided.

Your information could be vital, and may make a real difference.

If you click on the webpage logging back in is easy, just use the Anonymous Login button, or any page on the Crimestoppers website.