This informal CPD article ‘Understanding and Responding to Child Sexual and Criminal Exploitation’, was provided by Rachel Webb of Phoenix-Kaw Care Consultancy, a health and social care training and consultancy organisation dedicated to improving standards of care across the sector.
Child exploitation continues to be one of the most urgent safeguarding concerns in the UK. It involves manipulation, coercion, or control of children and young people for the gain of another person. Two key forms of exploitation are Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) both of which can have life-long consequences for victims and their families [1].
Understanding Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
CSE occurs when a child or young person is persuaded, coerced, or forced into sexual activity. This may take place in exchange for something the child needs or values, such as affection, gifts, money, or attention [1]. Offenders often groom children by building emotional connections or offering material rewards, both online and offline [3].
Victims may not realise they are being exploited due to the manipulative nature of grooming. This makes early recognition and professional awareness essential. Education, vigilance, and sensitive engagement are crucial in identifying children at risk [3][4].
Understanding Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)
CCE involves children being coerced into criminal behaviour, such as drug trafficking, theft, or gang-related activity. “County lines” operations, where children are used to move drugs and money across regions, are a prominent example [2]. These children are often threatened, intimidated, and isolated from support networks.
While CCE is a criminal offence, it is primarily a child protection issue. Children caught up in criminal exploitation must be viewed as victims in need of safeguarding and rehabilitation—not as offenders [1][4].
Recognising the Signs
Professionals play a vital role in identifying early warning signs of exploitation. Indicators can include:
• Unexplained money, gifts, or new possessions
• Absences from school or home
• Changes in mood, hygiene, or behaviour
• Secretive online communication or multiple phones
• Associations with older peers or unfamiliar adults
• Withdrawal or fearfulness about certain people or places
Each child’s experience is unique. Practitioners must use curiosity, compassion, and trauma-informed practice to understand what is happening beneath the surface [3][4].
Multi-Agency Collaboration
Safeguarding children at risk of CSE or CCE requires strong multi-agency working. Schools, social care, health professionals, and the police should communicate regularly, share intelligence, and act collectively to reduce harm [1][4].
Staff must receive regular training and reflective supervision to strengthen their confidence in managing complex safeguarding situations. Embedding this knowledge into daily practice creates a culture of awareness and early intervention [4].
Long-Term Impact and Support
The effects of exploitation can persist long into adulthood. Survivors may experience trauma, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance misuse, and difficulties forming trusting relationships [3]. Early therapeutic intervention, advocacy, and community support can help them rebuild safety and confidence.
Practitioners should also empower young people to understand their rights, develop resilience, and recognise healthy versus exploitative relationships [1][4].
Conclusion
Child Sexual and Criminal Exploitation devastates lives, but with awareness, training, and collaborative action, professionals can prevent harm and promote recovery. Every child deserves to grow up free from fear, manipulation, and abuse. By deepening our understanding and responding proactively, we take a vital step toward safeguarding the most vulnerable members of our society [1][4].
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from Phoenix-Kaw Care Consultancy, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
References
- Department for Education (2023). Working Together to Safeguard Children: A Guide to Inter-Agency Working to Safeguard and Promote the Welfare of Children. London: HM Government. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children
- National Crime Agency (2022). County Lines Exploitation Report. London: NCA. Available at: https://www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/
- NSPCC (2019). No One Noticed, No One Heard: A Study of Disclosures of Childhood Abuse. London: NSPCC. Available at: https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/research-resources/2019/no-one-noticed-no-one-heard
- Home Office (2023). Child Exploitation Disruption Toolkit: Practical Guidance for Professionals Working with Children at Risk. London: HM Government. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/child-exploitation-disruption-toolkit
