Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a crime and is where young people may be tricked into believing they’re in a consensual relationship and might be given gifts in exchange for sexual activity.

We are raising awareness of the signs of this type of exploitation as part of our #KnowTheSigns campaign as communities hold the key to helping reduce this crime by reporting any suspicious activity. Information from witnesses and local communities is vital if we are to obtain the evidence needed to arrest and prosecute offenders.

CSE can be difficult to spot and is it sometimes mistaken for ‘normal’ teenage behaviour but if a young person you know is exhibiting a few of the other common signs of CSE it is important that you seek advice and report it.

How local hospitality venues are helping

We have been working with hotel staff across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent, to help them spot the signs of possible child sexual exploitation in these venues along with information on how to report it to us.

Alongside the training sessions that involve hotel employees learning how to identify someone at risk we are providing them will literature to display in staff areas.

The hotel signs are available here

How you can help

Your information could be the missing piece of the puzzle. Speak up, it could help a child escape exploitation.

For more information about CSE, the signs, and how to report it, please visit our child sexual exploitation advice page.