Why you may not report your concerns about a child being sexually exploited – and why you should think again.

A third of people who suspect some sort of child abuse do nothing about it. Most are worried about them being wrong, or what they might have to do if they report.

Here are some of the common myths people have about around reporting their concerns about child sexual exploitation.

  1. Myth – ‘’ It’s just teenage behaviour’’

Fact: Yes - every child starts to behave differently as they grow up. But you shouldn’t ignore any feeling that the child is becoming significantly distant from the family, or if they have new gifts or behave in very secretive or aggressive ways. It may not be normal teenage behaviour – it could be that that child is being exploited.

  1. Myth – It’s only sexual exploitation if there’s sexual activity taking place.

Fact: Some online activity is exploitation too. Sexting – or sending sexualised images is exploitation and is illegal, yet recent research shows that most young people think it’s OK. Grooming a child, even if sexual activity hasn’t taken place yet, is a criminal offence. All forms of sexual exploitation wrecks lives.

  1. Myth – Reporting concerns to social services means that the child will be removed immediately from their homes.

Sharing your concerns with a local authority will not mean a child is taken into care,

but could mean the authorities spot a problem sooner and can take action to help the

child concerned.

  1. Myth – People will know that it’s me that reported

Fact: When you report to Children’s Social care you will be asked for your details

and can discuss if you’d prefer your details were kept private.

  1. Myth: It’s not my job to report child abuse – that’s for teachers, the police or social services to do

Fact:Keeping children safe is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone in the community

has an important role to play. A child being sexually abused wants someone to notice that they need help, and it could be you that they need.

You don’t have to be absolutely certain about your suspicions; if you have a feeling that something’s not right, talk to your local children’s social care team who can look into it.

  1. Myth: It’s doesn’t happen in my neighbourhood or to my child.

Fact: Any child from any background and any age can be a victim – because all children can be vulnerable.

  1. Myth: The child will tell someone if they are being abused.

Fact: Most children don’t tell anyone – either because they don’t realise they are being exploited, or being they feel that they have to, or are scared. It can be a difficult subject. So please, be aware of the signs and know what to do to get help.

Go to to find out about the signs of child sexual exploitation and what to do to report your concerns.