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Child sexual exploitation (CSE)

What is child sexual exploitation?

Sexual exploitation is child abuse and, although they may not realise it, it puts the young victim at huge risk of damage to their physical, emotional and psychological health.

Definition

'It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity (a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or (b) for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology'.

Many young people who are being abused do not realise they are at risk and will not call for help.  They may see themselves as willing participants when in fact their behaviour is anything but consenting. 

Darlington Safeguarding Partnership - CSE procedure and practice guidance

The practice guidance has been designed to assist practitioners in identifying Child Sexual Exploitation and outlines how they can support children and young people. 

CSE procedure and practice guidance [pdf document]

In order to identify children at risk of sexual exploitation or experiencing sexual exploitation, you should consider the risk factors outlined within the risk assessment form.

Child Exploitation Risk Assessment Information form [PDF Document]

If you have a concern for child at risk of CSE then follow DSP child Protection Procedures

Information sharing form

It is important, if you have any information no matter how small in relation to: suspected offenders; suspected vehicles; or locations of interest you must provide details.

You should record any detail on the Partnership Information Sharing form [word document] and submit to Durham Constabulary as a matter of urgency.

A guide on what is deemed to be intelligence and how it should be shared and recorded has also been provided to support completion of the Partnership Information Sharing Form.

Partnership Information/Intelligence Sharing Guide [Powerpoint]

Young victims can report anonymously online at www.fearless.org [external link]

Multi-agency delivery of CSE training

The DSP offers Child Exploitation training co-delivered by Barnardo's and provides an overview of the different forms of exploitation, including criminal and exploitation.  Visit the our training page for more information.

Further help and support is available: