What is child sexual exploitation (CSE)?
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of child abuse. It involves sexual, emotional and sometimes physical harm.
A child cannot consent to their own abuse. The legal age of consent for any sexual activity is 16.
Children and young people may not realise they are being abused, especially if they have been groomed to trust the abuser. In some cases, they may be too scared to speak out due to threats, intimidation or violence. Offenders are often skilled at manipulation. They may try to isolate your child from you, breaking down trust and communication to gain control.
When some children are exploited they can be given gifts like vapes, money, food and drugs, or given affection and status. This is called grooming. Children may believe they are in a loving relationship, but they are being exploited.
Some abusers use threats, violence or financial control. For example, they may lend a child money they know can not be repaid.
CSE can happen anywhere, including online, at school, in parks, at parties and in takeaways.
Spotting the signs of CSE
CSE can be hard to spot. Teenagers often want more independence, which can make it difficult to know when something is wrong.
Look out for these signs that together could indicate that your child might be at risk of being sexually exploited:
- being especially secretive and not engaging with their usual friends
- sudden mood swings or changes in personality
- associating with, or developing a sexual relationship with, older men and/or women
- missing from home and being defensive about their location and activities, often returning home late or staying out all night (offenders know that parents and carers will suspect something is wrong if their child stays out all night, so they may initially drop the child off at the home address and before their curfew and they may even pick them up outside the school gates)
- odd calls and messages on their mobiles or social media pages from unknown, possibly older, associates from outside their friendship circle
- having new items they can’t afford, like phones or clothes
- skipping school, college or work
- using drugs or alcohol
- signs of physical or sexual assault
- repeated sexually-transmitted infections, pregnancies or terminations
- self-harm or emotional distress
- concerning internet use
- sexual behaviour that is not appropriate for their age
If your child tells you of abuse
If your child tells you that they have been raped or sexually assaulted it is important to show them that you believe them by listening calmly and actively and responding sensitively. Try to let them speak at their own pace and offer comfort if they want it. Do not criticize yourself if you cry or show emotion - this is a natural response to witnessing your child’s distress.
Afterwards, write down what they told you, including the time and date. This could help with any investigation.
If the rape or sexual assault is recent, we strongly advise that you call the police, even if the child does not want you to:
- Call 999 if your child is in immediate danger.
- Call 101 if you believe a crime has been committed.
- You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.