There are different ways that adults can exploit children and young people. Exploitation involves using someone for personal gain. It is abusive and hurts children and young people physically, mentally, and/or emotionally.
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
Child sexual exploitation or CSE, is a type of child abuse. It happens when a child or young person is encouraged or forced to take part in sexual activity in exchange for something such as presents, money, or simply attention.
CSE can happen to any child or young person, boy or girl, and it may well seem like a normal friendship or relationship to begin with.
Trafficking
Another form of exploitation is human trafficking, sometimes called modern slavery. Children and young people are moved from abroad and within the UK, then exploited, forced to work or sold. This can be for sex, benefit fraud, forced marriage, forced labour on farms, in factories and even in people’s homes. They can be forced into criminal activities such as begging, transporting drugs, and street theft.
Getting Help
If you or someone you know is being exploited, you should get help as soon as possible. You may be worried that you won’t be believed or will be judged but it is never the fault of the child or young person, no matter what the situation is.
– If you or someone you know is in immediate danger call the police on 999
– If you would like to report a concern you can contact the Redbridge Children Services on:
– Telephone – 020 8708 3885 (Monday- Friday 9am-5pm) or 020 8708 5897 (after 5pm and at weekends).
Helpline: 0800 11 11
Helpline: 0808 800 5000