#LookCloser Awareness Week

The Look Closer campaign aims to raise awareness among both professionals and the public about the signs of child exploitation and urges people to report any concerns to the police.

James Simmonds-Read, National Programme Manager at The Children’s Society’s Prevention programme, which runs Look Closer, said:

'Criminals prey on children, grooming them in person or online and using terrifying threats and violence to force them into crimes such as carrying drugs or exploiting them sexually.

‘Worryingly, the cost of living crisis and financial pressures facing families can leave some children even more open to perpetrators offering them cash, food and gifts, even vapes and gaming credits. But it’s just not material things - they also offer the promise of friendship and feelings of belonging.

‘During this Awareness Week we want to dispel some assumptions people might make about victims; it’s important to understand that any child in any community can be targeted and that children of all ages, including those entering adulthood genders are forced into sexual and criminal exploitation.

‘We work with police through the Look Closer campaign so that when concerns are reported, children are identified as victims and offered support, alongside crucial efforts to bring the offenders exploiting them to justice.

‘We urge everyone from commuters and transport staff to shoppers, dog walkers, online gamers and people working in public-facing roles, such as shop and hotel staff, to be vigilant for signs of exploitation in public places. By reporting things that don’t feel right, either in your community or online, you may be helping a child to escape a situation of horrific abuse.’