What is child sexual exploitation?
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a type of child abuse. It happens when a young person is encouraged, or forced, to take part in sexual activity in exchange for something. Child sexual exploitation involves others getting children or young people to do sexual favours either for themselves, or other people, and this might include being encouraged or forced into having sex, watching others have sex or being touched.
It happens to boys and girls and can be really hard to spot. Often people think they’re in a good relationship, even after things have turned bad.
But there are warning signs. It’s really important that you know how to spot them so you can protect yourself and your friends.
Here are some possible signs:
- To get to know you they give you lots of attention.
We all like attention and it’s nice to feel wanted. But if someone tries to get to know by giving you lots of attention, ask yourself – what do they really want?
- They give you gifts, like phone credit, alcohol, drugs or jewellery.
This can be exciting and make you feel good about someone but if they want sex in return they are trying to exploit you.
- They try to isolate you from your friends or family.
They will say that they are the only person you need. They might tell you that your friends or family won’t understand or you’ll be in trouble. Remember, the people who care about you will want to protect you.
- They have mood swings.
If someone flips between being ‘very nice’ and ‘very nasty’, you can feel like you need to do things to keep them happy. This can be a sign they are trying to control you.
- They control you with promises and threats.
Abusers use many tricks to control young people. They may make promises they can’t keep, ask them to keep secrets or threaten them. Some become violent.
The story of Jay
How a girl was used by the man she thought she loved.
Are you worried you’re being exploited?
If you are worried about a situation that you, or a friend, is in you should talk to an adult you trust as soon as you can. People who can help include parents, teachers, police officers social workers and youth workers
Remember: if you are in any danger or feel unsafe, get in contact with the police immediately on 999.
Where can you find help?
If you live in Dorset you can call the Family Support and Advice Line via 01305 228558 or email at
familysupportandadviceline@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk [1]
Other helpful resources:
If you would like to talk to someone in confidence you can contact ChildLine [2] – You can call them free on 0800 1111 and this number won’t appear on a telephone bill. Available 24 hours a day.
You can find out more about sexual exploitation by visiting the Barnado’s website [3]