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Child exploitation

Child exploitation can take many forms, including online grooming, criminal exploitation, sexual exploitation, financial manipulation, and human trafficking. As digital communication and social media continue to grow, individuals—especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults—face increasing risks both online and in their communities. Understanding these risks is essential for creating safe environments, preventing harm, and responding effectively when concerns arise.

This guidance is designed to help individuals, families, and professionals recognise the signs of exploitation, understand how it occurs, and know what steps to take if they are worried about someone’s safety. By increasing awareness and promoting safe online and offline practices, we can work together to reduce vulnerability, strengthen protective factors, and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need.

Exploitation can take many forms, including online grooming, criminal exploitation, sexual exploitation, financial manipulation, and human trafficking. As digital communication and social media continue to grow, individuals—especially children, young people, and vulnerable adults—face increasing risks both online and in their communities. Understanding these risks is essential for creating safe environments, preventing harm, and responding effectively when concerns arise.

This guidance is designed to help individuals, families, and professionals recognise the signs of exploitation, understand how it occurs, and know what steps to take if they are worried about someone’s safety. By increasing awareness and promoting safe online and offline practices, we can work together to reduce vulnerability, strengthen protective factors, and ensure that everyone has access to the support they need.

Trusted Websites for Guidance on Risk of Exploitation

NSPCC (UK) – Protecting Children from Exploitation

What it covers:

  • Signs of grooming

  • Online safety

  • What to do if you’re worried about a child
    Website: http://nspcc.org.uk
    Good for parents, professionals, and young people.

CEOP / ThinkUKnow

What it covers:

  • How to spot online exploitation

  • Safety guides for children, teens, parents, and educators

  • How to report online exploitation
    Website: http://thinkuknow.co.uk
    The CEOP (Child Exploitation and Online Protection Command) reporting button is widely used.

UNICEF – Child Protection Resources

What it covers:

Bedfordshire Violence & Exploitation Prevention Partnership (VEPP)

Bedfordshire Violence & Exploitation Prevention Partnership (VEPP)