Potential signs of child abuse are being highlighted today as part of National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day.
National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day aims to highlight the issues surrounding CSE; encouraging everyone to think, spot and speak out against abuse and adopt a zero tolerance to adults developing inappropriate relationships with children, or children developing inappropriate relationships with other children.
There can be many signs a child may be at risk. These signs can be different for children and young people depending on their age and the nature of the child abuse or neglect they are experiencing. To help people feel confident in spotting signs, a list of key things to look out for has been put together –
The A B C signs to spot:
- Appearance: such as unusual injuries, or consistently poor hygiene
- Behaviour: such as being withdrawn, overly anxious, disruptive, self-harming, or any other sudden changes in behaviour
- Communication: such as talking aggressively, using sexual language, or becoming secretive
The National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day aims to highlight the issues surrounding CSE.
Councillor Peter Clark, portfolio holder for learning, skills and safeguarding children, said: “Today highlights the importance of identifying and preventing forms of child sexual exploitation, but it’s something we need to be constantly aware and vigilant of.
“If you suspect any form of child sexual exploitation it’s vitally important to report it to the appropriate authorities. Our responsibility to protect our children is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a society.”
You can support National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day on social media using the hashtags #HelpingHands and #CSEDay19
