Child Sexual Exploitation

CSE involves exploitative situations, contexts and relationships where a child may receive something, such as food, gifts or in some cases simply affection, as a result of engaging in sexual activities.

CSE can take many forms but the perpetrator will always hold some kind of power over the victim. It is important to note that some young people who are being sexually abused do not exhibit any external signs of abuse.

The school has adopted the following procedure for handling cases of CSE, as outlined by the DfE:

Step one – Identifying cases

School staff members are aware of and look for the key indicators of CSE, these are as follows:

Going missing for periods of time or regularly going home late
Regularly missing school
Appearing with unexplained gifts and new possessions
Associating with other young people involved in exploitation
Having older boyfriends or girlfriends
Undergoing mood swings or drastic changes in emotional wellbeing
Displaying inappropriate sexualised behaviour

Step two – Referring cases

Where CSE, or the risk of it, is suspected, staff will discuss the case with the dedicated member of staff for child protection. If after discussion a concern still remains, local safeguarding procedures will be triggered, including a referral to Family Connect and the Police .

Step three – Support

The LA and all other necessary authorities will then handle the matter to conclusion. The school will cooperate as needed.