Exploitation, under UK law, means taking unfair advantage of someone for personal gain. It often happens when one person has more power or control, and uses that to pressure, trick, or take advantage of someone else.
Children may not always recognise that what’s happening to them is abuse. Even when they do, fear, shame, or confusion can make it very hard to speak out. This is why it’s important for adults to notice changes in behaviour, mood, or wellbeing that could signal something isn’t right.
There are many different forms of exploitation which can occur, affecting children and adults and result in some kind of abuse or harm to be caused to a person, be it physical, sexual, emotional or financial.
These include;
Modern slavery
Domestic servitude
Forced labour
Criminal exploitation
Sexual exploitation
Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)
Further information on exploitation can be found by clicking on the following links:
Modern Slavery & Exploitation - Wales Safer Communities
Child sexual exploitation | NSPCC
Criminal exploitation and gangs | NSPCC
Support is available. If you’re at risk, or worried about someone who might be, we’re here to listen and help. You can tell a member of PTHB staff, tell your GP or you could contact one of the helplines or specialised services which is safe, confidential and free.
If you believe a person is in immediate risk of harm, you should contact the police call 999 for police.
Stop it Now is a confidential helpline for anyone with concerns about child sexual abuse and exploitation and how to prevent it. They can help you if you are worried about your own thoughts, feelings or behaviour, or with any concerns about another adult or young person. To find out more visit Stop It Now website or call the helpline number on 0808 1000 900.
The Truth Project was set up to give victims and survivors of child sexual abuse a chance to share their experiences with the Independent Inquiry Child sexual Abuse. Further information can be found on the Truth Project Website.