What is child sexual exploitation?
Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of child abuse where a young person under the age of 18 is encouraged, trapped, forced or coerced into a sexual relationship or situation by an adult. It often involves the young person being offered something in return for performing sexual acts, such as alcohol, cigarettes, gifts, money, drugs and affection.
CSE can also happen through the use of technology, for example being persuaded to post sexual images on the internet. CSE is never okay and if it’s happening to you or someone close to you there is help out there for you.
How to get help and support if you are experiencing CSE
If you are under 18 years old, you can call Childline at any time on 0800 1111 to speak to a counsellor. Calls are free and confidential. You can also visit www.childline.org.uk where they have online chat, email and message boards.
You can also talk to an adult you know and trust; this may be a teacher, a social worker, a family friend, a parent or a friend’s parent.
My Youthline counsellor has helped me and it helps talking to someone and someone actually listening. It makes me feel better.
Other Resources
There are many other organisations that could also help you, and a lot of information online. The following websites have information about issues relating to CSE, including information about handling relationships online and relationship abuse.