POLICE in Redditch will support the National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day (CSE) on Friday (March 18) by encouraging residents from all walks of life to think, spot and speak out against this kind of abuse.
A national campaign will see thousands of school children, professionals, teachers, parents, carers, taxi drivers, sports coaches and youth leaders support the event which aims to raise awareness of CSE.
Detective Superintendent Steve Eccleston, from Warwickshire Police and West Mercia Police, said: “”If people know what to look out for they can take steps to help a child that is being exploited.
“Everyone in society has a responsibility to do all they can to protect vulnerable people.
“CSE can affect young people from all walks of life, there is no stereotypical victim of exploitation but there are warning signs in children’s behaviour that may indicate something’s not right.
“It is important that everyone can recognise these warning signs and know where to turn to for help so that interventions can be put in place at the earliest opportunity.”
Detective Superintendent Eccleston added how research often shows young people who have experienced sexual abuse and exploitation by an adult or peer don’t tell anyone else about it.
“If a child finds the courage to confide in a person, whoever they may be, they must listen and take the appropriate action,” he said.
Police are encouraging anyone who has been, or knows someone who has been, sexually abused, groomed or exploited to come forward and contact police on 101 – always call 999 in an emergency – or contact a support service in confidence such as The Glades on 0808 178 2058.