Police share knowledge on how to spot signs of child exploitation

Child exploitation is when a child is groomed, forced, or coerced into doing something for someone else’s gain.

In a video shared on Twitter, detective chief inspector, Jess Aston, shares the signs to look out. She said: "It could be signs of physical abuse or sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy, misuse of alcohol or drugs.

"You could see a sharp change in a child's behaviour, they could be more secretive or they could start going missing from home or staying away from home, they could start using sexually inappropriate behaviour or language.

"They might have possessions that they can't account for, such as money, a new phone, trainers, clothes. You may see that they have a sudden fear of particular people or places.

"Exploitation is something that happens outside of their homes, it happens out and about. We all come across children in our daily lives, in our professional lives.

"If any of us see any of the signs I've just mentioned and have concerns that a child is being exploited, it's imperative that they report this to the police.

"They can do this using the online form on the Avon and Somerset Police website."

Any child could be a victim of exploitation.

Child exploitation is when somebody is groomed, forced, or coerced into doing something for someone else’s gain.

Detective Chief Inspector Jess Aston shares the signs to look out for that may mean a child is being exploited: pic.twitter.com/FeOlmfAbru

— Avon and Somerset Police (@ASPolice) June 28, 2023

Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a criminal offence. CSE is a type of sexual abuse which targets children or young people.

When children are exploited in this way, they may be given affection, gifts or money in exchange for involvement in sexual activities. Through these actions, known as grooming, children may trust their abuser and believe they are part of a loving and consensual relationship.

If you suspect a child or young person is being abused, report it. In an emergency, always contact the police on 999. You can also contact the Police directly by phoning 101. You can also report to the agencies below:

The NSPCC Helpline, available 7 days a week via the website or by emailing help@nspcc.org.ukcreate new email or calling 0808 800 5000.

Call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or visit the opens in a new windowCrime Stoppers website.

You can contact Children’s Services on 0300 123 2224 and email at childrens@somerset.gov.ukcreate.