Anyone from any background can be exploited.

There are many physical and psychological signs a child or young person might exhibit if they are being exploited. There is no single offence of exploitation and so signs can vary with each individual. Recognising changes in a person’s behaviour overall will help in identifying a child that is being exploited.

These lists are neither prescriptive nor exhaustive.

Common signs of exploitation:

• having unexplained mobile phone credit or a new mobile phone
• having unknown telephone contacts
• possessing drugs or alcohol
• staying out late
• being disengaged from family members
• exhibiting inappropriate sexual behaviour
• being withdrawn
• spending more time online
• going missing from home
• missing education
• being disengaged
• appearing anxious
• self-harming
• being blackmailed (also known as debt bondage)
• being secretive.

Signs of gang exploitation may include:

• fear of other neighbourhoods
• offensive, antisocial behaviour
• providing alibis for other gang members
• having new friends of different ages
• carrying a new mobile phone
• carrying weapons
• being involved in petty crime
• a distinctive dress style
• being approached or picked up by unknown vehicles.

Signs of child sexual exploitation may include:

• unexplained gifts
• significant older boyfriend/girlfriend
• inappropriate sexual behaviour for their age
• mood swings
• sexually transmitted infections
• pregnancy.

Signs of peer-on-peer exploitation may include:

• defensive behaviour about peer group
• increased time spent online
• having unexplained items such as money and gifts
• being bullied.