Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
CSE is a form of child sexual abuse that occurs when an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance in power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child into taking part in sexual or criminal activity. This often happens in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or through violence or the threat of violence.
Sexual abuse may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example, rape or oral sex) or nonpenetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing, and touching outside clothing. It may include noncontact activities, such as involving children in the production of sexual images, forcing children to look at sexual images or watch sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways or grooming a child in preparation for abuse including via the internet.
CSE can occur over time or be a one-off occurrence and may happen without the child’s immediate knowledge for example through others sharing videos or images of them on social media. CSE can affect any child who has been coerced into engaging in sexual activities. This includes 16- and 17-year-olds who can legally consent to have sex. Some children may not realise they are being exploited for example they believe they are in a genuine romantic relationship.
What to look out for
CSE is often difficult to spot; victims are groomed by perpetrators and may be too frightened to speak out. In many cases young people don’t recognise themselves as a victim of CSE; they believe that they are in a loving relationship.
Victims may:
Present with unexplained bruises/ injuries
Become depressed, isolated or anxious
Develop sexualised behaviour and or language
Be given new gifts/ possessions such as mobile phones, electronic devices, new clothes, jewellery etc
Support available
If you have any concerns regarding CSE then please speak to a member of The Safeguarding team. The Team will support students who are at risk of CSE and offer advice and support to parents/ carers.