Child exploitation
Child exploitation is when a person or group uses a child for their benefit, including:
- child sexual exploitation
- child trafficking and modern slavery: report or learn more on the Kent Safeguarding Children website
- criminal exploitation, gangs and county lines: find out more, including how to report, on Bernado’s website.
Child sexual exploitation (CSE)
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a type of sexual abuse. Children or young people can be in relationships where they are showered with gifts, money or affection in return for performing sexual activities or other people performing sexual activities on them. Victims may believe that they are in a loving and consenting relationship and often trust their abuser without understanding that they are being abused. They may depend on their abuser or be too scared to tell anyone what's happening.
What to do if you are worried
If you are worried about yourself or someone you know:
- call 101, or
- call the Say Something helpline anonymously on 116 000.
Spot the signs and symptoms of child exploitation
Child abuse includes criminal or sexual exploitation within gangs or other settings. The signs of this abuse are not always obvious. Learn how to spot symptoms of child exploitation on our page signs and symptoms of child abuse.
Adult survivors of child abuse may still experience symptoms or need support. Get help with non-recent child abuse, including child exploitation and CSE.