On March 18, we want the world to unite against Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) which is why we’re supporting ‘National Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day’ and aim to highlight the issues surrounding CSE. Along with stop-cse.org we’re encouraging everyone to think, spot and speak out against abuse and adopt a zero tolerance to adults developing inappropriate relationships with children or children developing inappropriate relationships with other chidren.
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of sexual abuse that involves the manipulation and/or coercion of young people under the age of 18 into sexual activity. Many of those who are victimised may be reluctant to disclose offences or seek support, often due to stigma, prejudice, embarrassment or the fear that they will not be believed.
It is estimated that only 20 – 25% of victimised children and young people are ‘looked after’. Children and young people living at home can be just as vulnerable, if not more vulnerable as they may not be known to social services and therefore are less likely to be identified as at risk of Child Sexual Exploitation.
As part of our commitment to tackling and raising CSE awareness nationally, By the Bridge with Cambian (BtBwC) are supporting the #HelpingHands campaign alongside police and community organisations who have launched an online campaign to put an end to child sexual exploitation.
Our CSE Champions have been asking foster parents and children to take pictures of their hands with messages of support tackling CSE and were set the challenge of creating eye catching displays around our branches. We have also displayed CSE Awaremess posters in every branch and will be offering a prize for the most creative display as per last year. See some of the fantastic work which has been created this year above.
Together we hope to inform, educate and prevent this form of child sexual abuse within the UK.
Click HERE to find out more about the National CSE Awareness Day.