Child exploitation

If you are worried that your child may be being exploited, talk to them. It is important that they know that you are concerned. Even if they don’t feel ready to tell you, they know that you have noticed.

1. Only start a discussion when you feel prepared and ready to. These discussions are best not to be rushed. Sometimes it is easier to have a discussion when you are not talking face-to-face, for example, in a car.
2. Be clear about what you are noticing. For example, “I saw you talking to that person outside the house yesterday”
3. Ask a curious question. Try to not ask them lots of questions as this may close down the conversation. For example, you may ask “Do I know them? Are they from school?”
4. Listen to their response. If you don't understand something this is okay. Be honest and ask them to explain in more detail if they can. Let the child say everything they want to say before offering an opinion or advice.
5. If they don’t talk to you, that is ok. Recognise that they may not feel safe in that moment.
6. End the conversation with a ‘care’ response. For example, you may say “I am worried about you.”
7. Let the child know that you are available to talk to when they feel ready.
8. Be clear, if they have told you information, that you will need to share this.