Child exploitation

There are signs that a child might be at risk.

If we spot these signs early, we can help stop harm before it gets worse.  

Some of the signs may be: 

• Suddenly having lots of money 
• Having new things, such as expensive clothes or trainers 
• An additional phone - often receiving multiple texts and calls 
• Using drugs and/or alcohol 
• Carrying a weapon 
• Going missing from home, being absent from school/work or staying out late 
• Having new friends and ignoring old friendships 
• Relationships with adults 
• Having unexplained bruises or other injuries 
• Encouraged to keep a relationship secret 
• In a sexual relationship they are not comfortable with 
• Unsafe use of telephones, internet and social media which could indicate:
  • Coercion
  • Extortion
  • Radicalisation
  • Exploitation
  • Sexual abuse
  • Serious youth violence 

Go to the Know the Signs website to read more about the indicators of exploitation.