Child Exploitation and Missing Children
What is Child Sexual Exploitation?
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is when someone grooms and controls a child for a sexual purpose. It can happen to boys and girls, it can happen in rural and urban areas, it can happen face to face and it can happen online. It is a form of child abuse.
The definition of CSE:
"Child sexual exploitation is a form of child sexual abuse. It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity (a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or (b) for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology."
(ref. Child sexual exploitation; Definition and guidance for practitioners, local leaders and decision makers working to protect children from child sexual exploitation, DfE February 2017)
GSCP Exploitation Strategy 2018-2021