Recently, some of our Independent Social Workers (ISWs) attended two peer discussion sessions delivered by Dr Craig Barlow, focusing on Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE). The sessions highlighted the concerns surrounding these forms of abuse and the importance of recognising the signs early in order to safeguard vulnerable children and young people.
Exploitation can affect children from any background and often occurs in complex and hidden ways. Increasing awareness within communities, services, and families is a crucial step in helping to prevent harm.
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of sexual abuse in which a child or young person is manipulated, coerced, or forced into sexual activity in exchange for something they need or want. This may include:
In many cases, perpetrators build trust with a child through a process known as grooming. Grooming can take place both online and in person, and it often involves the perpetrator gradually gaining the child’s trust before exploiting them. Children may be made to feel special, valued, or dependent on the person exploiting them, making it difficult for them to recognise the abuse or seek help.
CSE can occur through peer groups, individuals, or organised networks, and it can take place in person or through digital platforms and social media.
Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) occurs when individuals or organised groups exploit children by manipulating them into engaging in criminal activity. One of the most widely recognised forms of CCE is county lines, where organised crime groups use children and vulnerable young people to transport and sell drugs across different areas.
Children involved in criminal exploitation may be pressured, threatened, or manipulated into participating in activities such as:
In many cases, young people may initially be offered money, gifts, or a sense of belonging by the individuals exploiting them. Over time, this can escalate into coercion, intimidation, or violence, making it difficult for the child to leave the situation.
It is important to recognise that children involved in these activities are victims of exploitation, even when they appear to be committing criminal offences.
Both CSE and CCE involve a process of grooming and manipulation. Exploiters may identify vulnerabilities in a child’s life and use these to gain control. Vulnerabilities can include:
Perpetrators may create a sense of dependency by offering support, attention, or material goods before gradually introducing exploitative behaviour.
Exploitation can be difficult to detect, but there are several warning signs that may indicate a child is at risk. These may include:
While these indicators do not necessarily confirm exploitation, they can signal that a child may need additional support and safeguarding intervention.
Safeguarding children requires collaboration between professionals, families, and communities. One of the key messages highlighted during Dr Barlow’s sessions was the importance of professional curiosity and vigilance when working with children and young people.
Professionals working in social care, education, health, and community services play a vital role in identifying potential risks and responding appropriately. Early intervention and information sharing between agencies are essential in protecting children from harm.
At the same time, raising awareness within communities helps ensure that more people understand how exploitation occurs and how to respond to concerns.
Children who experience exploitation may feel trapped, frightened, or unable to ask for help. They may also feel loyalty toward the person exploiting them or fear the consequences of speaking out.
For this reason, safeguarding responses should always focus on support, protection, and understanding, rather than blame. Children affected by exploitation need consistent support, safe environments, and trusted adults who are willing to listen.
Services must work together to ensure that children receive the help they need to recover and move forward safely.
Safeguarding is a shared responsibility, and by remaining informed and attentive to the signs of exploitation, we can all play a part in protecting children and young people from harm.
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