Child sexual exploitation and abuse

Child sexual exploitation

Child sexual exploitation (CSE) happens when a young person is encouraged or forced to take part in sexual activity. It might be in exchange for presents, money, alcohol or simply emotional attention.

Child Sexual Abuse is the sexual abuse of a child or young person aged under 18 by an adult who involves them in inappropriate sexual activities either with themselves or another person.

It happens to children from all backgrounds and communities, right across the UK, out of sight and behind closed doors. It happens to both boys and girls, online or offline.


Child sexual exploitation is never the young person’s fault, even when they 'agree' to the sexual activity.


People who commit child sexual exploitation often ‘groom’ their victims to gain their trust. Later, when the behaviour of the abuser starts to change, many children are too frightened to come forward, or don't realise they are being abused. They may suffer in silence for years without anyone to talk to about what they’re going through.


If you believe a child or young person is at immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police by dialling 999.

If you have concerns about a child or young person but believe they are not at immediate risk contact the Sandwell Safeguarding Team on 0121 569 3100

To get help talk to trained counsellors on the 24 hour helplines run by Childline on 0800 11 11 and the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000.


Talk PANTS

Support for parents. How to have a simple conversation to help keep your child safe from sexual abuse

Your options

West Midlands Police advice and options available if you are a victim or witness sexual abuse

Crimestoppers

advice and signs to spot if you suspect child sexual abuse or exploitation


Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there's no medical reason for this to be done.

Female Genital Mutilation

If you are concerned that a woman or girl is in immediate danger of FGM, contact the police by calling 999.

 


Tackling exploitation and abuse

West Midlands Violence Reduction Unit

The Children's Society

campaigns to protect children's rights and keep children safe from harm and exploitation


AFRUCA

AFRUCA works in UK BME communities to protect and safeguard children from abuse and harm.

Parental child abduction abroad

Guidance on what you can do and who to contact if your child has been taken or kept overseas by their other parent or a relative without your permission.

Keeping children safe in education

Department for Education advice and guidance


Missing People

Call 116 000 to speak to someone if you are thinking of leaving home or know someone who is missing

Refuge support for children

Support for children who are being hurt or abused by a parent or someone they know

Call 0808 2000 247 to speak to someone who can help


The Hide Out

safe space for children and young people affected by or experiencing domestic abuse

Online sexual abuse

If you have been a victim of sexual online abuse or you're worried this is happening to someone you know, report it safely and securely

Stop Abuse Together

GOV.UK website brings together advice and resources to help you keep the children in your life safe.

Page last reviewed: 24/03/2023

Actions

Get in touch with us

Family Information Service

family_information@sandwell.gov.uk
Back to top