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Child Exploitation

What is Child Exploitation?

Child Exploitation can come in many forms.

In Orkney, we recognise all forms of exploitation of children as a Child Exploitation.

By “Child” we mean any child or young person up to the age of 18. Boys as well as girls can be victims.

Child Sexual Exploitation*

Definition: Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of child sexual abuse in which a person or persons of any age take advantage of a power imbalance to force or entice a child into engaging in sexual activity, in return for something received by the child and/or those perpetrating or facilitating the abuse. As with other forms of child sexual abuse, the presence of perceived consent does not excuse or mitigate the abusive nature of the act.

Child sexual abuse and exploitation involve serious crime. If you think a child is being or has been abused you should report it immediately to your local Children and Families Social work Services on 01856 873535 extn 3342 or to the Police. There is more information about reporting child sexual abuse is available on Parent Club.

Scottish Government developed the Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Hub. It provides information for parents and carers including how to:

  • spot the signs of abuse
  • talk to children about sexual abuse
  • report concerns
  • access help and support

*All forms of child sexual exploitation is child sexual abuse.

Child Criminal Exploitation

Criminal exploitation of children occurs when an individual or group:

  • takes advantage of an imbalance of power
  • uses or threatens violence to manipulate or deceive a child into criminal activity

This is often for financial or another advantage of the perpetrator.

A child may have been criminally exploited even if the activity appears consensual. Child criminal exploitation does not always involve physical contact. It can also occur through the use of technology.

Child criminal exploitation is abuse, and an immediate child protection response is required. If you have concerns that a child is at risk of criminal exploitation, or is being criminally exploited, you should report your concerns to the police or social work without delay.

Child criminal exploitation is a complex, evolving and often hidden form of abuse.

The resources found on this page have been collected from a variety of Scottish Government and Police Scotland resources which have been made to support parents, carers and professionals to better understand child exploitation in Scotland. These materials have bene produced by the Community Charity I Am Me Scotland, who work with communities to make a safer Scotland for all.

Child Sexual Exploitation

Commercial Exploitation

Sextortion

Grooming Male Perspective

Grooming Female Perspective

Gangs

Cuckooing

Debt Bondage