Signs of Child Criminal Exploitation

Leeds Safeguarding Children Partnership highlights some things to be aware of…

The teenage years are a time of great change for young people. As they develop their own identity they move closer to their peers and naturally become more independent. It is also at this time that they are more likely to be impulsive and take risks.

This behaviour is perfectly normal, however organised crime groups and sometimes individuals, can use this time to their advantage and see the teenager as someone who can be easily manipulated or intimidated into doing illegal activities. This can lead to child criminal exploitation.

Parents and carers are often the first to notice the early signs that their child is at risk of or is being exploited. You might notice that your child is behaving differently, over and above what you would expect from typical teenage behaviour.

Here are some of the signs to be aware of:

A sudden change in attitude.

Have they become secretive and disrespectful to members of the family, teachers, or others they usually get on with?

Are they showing signs of harm or depression?

Are there unexplained absences from school?

Do they seem to have money which they can’t explain where it has come from?

Have you seen them using a new phone or wearing new or designer clothes or jewellery?

Are they receiving calls and messages more frequently and at all hours of the day?

Do they react immediately when they receive the message? Do they go out or come home at unusual or very regular times?

There may be many reasons for a change in your child’s behaviour and it might not be anything to worry about. However, if you notice a combination of the above signs and you are concerned, it might be time to seek help or advice.

For further information and support see www.leedsscp.org.uk/cce