Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
What is CSE?
Child sexual exploitation is a form of child sexual abuse. 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.
Child sexual exploitation is never the victim’s fault, even if there is some form of exchange.
Sexual exploitation involves varying degrees of coercion, intimidation or enticement, including unwanted pressure from peers to have sex, sexual bullying including cyberbullying and grooming. However, it is also important to recognise that some young people who are being sexually exploited do not exhibit any external signs of this abuse.
Some of the following signs may be indicators of sexual exploitation:
-
Children who appear with unexplained gifts or new possessions;
-
Children who associate with other young people involved in exploitation;
-
Children who have older boyfriends or girlfriends;
-
Children who suffer from sexually transmitted infections or become pregnant;
-
Children who suffer from changes in emotional well-being;
-
Children who misuse drugs and alcohol;
-
Children who go missing for periods of time or regularly come home late;
-
Children who regularly miss school or education or do not take part in education.
If CSE is suspected, the CSE risk assessment tool should be used to identify the likelihood of CSE and passed on to relevant agencies with any referral.
Barnardo’s is the largest supporter of CSE support in the UK and runs specialist services in several locations across the UK. Please click on the link below for more information.
Barnardo’s CSE Support