Family Information Service

Child exploitation

What to look out for

It’s not always easy to spot the signs of Child Exploitation. Often the biggest sign is a change in their behaviour. Where possible, try talking to your child about your worries.

If a child is being exploited, signs to look out for include:

  • Being frightened of some people, places or situations
  • Increasing secrecy
  • Sharp changes in mood or character
  • Having money for things that they cannot explain
  • Physical signs of abuse (bruises, cuts, injuries without an explanation)
  • Sexually transmitted infections
  • Increase in missing episodes
  • Substance misuse
  • Increase in travel in/outside of the County
  • Significantly older peers
  • Meeting people in person that they have only spoken to online
  • Seen getting into/out of vehicles that you do not know

Any one of these signs doesn't always mean that a child is being exploited. The presence of several could suggest that you begin to ask questions and consider seeking help.