Sexual Exploitation

Sexual Exploitation, sometimes called CSE, is when you (or sometimes someone else) receive ‘something’ (e.g., food, accommodation, drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, affection, gifts, money, membership of a gang) as a result of you performing a sexual activity or someone performing a sexual activity on you. This might be:

• physical penetrative sex
• oral sex
• taking nude photos or videos of yourself. It might happen online or in person.

It can be difficult to know if you are in an unhealthy relationship and being exploited. You may think the adult is your boyfriend or partner, you may think they love you. They may take you to parties and give you alcohol or drugs. You may have an online 'relationship' and haven't met yet. You may be being:

• tricked
• humiliated, or
• blackmailed

in to doing things you don't want to do.

If you ever feel unsure, unsafe or get that sick feeling in your tummy, it could mean you’re not comfortable with what’s happening. You must listen to your feelings. It is never OK for someone to pressure you to have sex, do something sexual or dangerous. You have the right to say how you feel and to be respected.

If you think you have been the victim of sexual violence such as sexual assault, rape or abuse it’s important to realise that, whatever happened, it’s not your fault. Nobody should be forced to do things sexually against their will. You may feel angry, scared, confused or down. It’s important that you’re not alone with these feelings.

SUPPORT

You can tell a trusted friend or an adult such as a family member or teacher, youth worker, school nurse, GP or someone else you can trust so they can help make it stop. If there isn't anybody you can tell, then you can call ChildLine at any time of the day or night for advice and support. You don't even have to give your name if you don't want to.

Barnardo's supports thousands of children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse.

Click on the pic below to look at The Internet, Relationships and You webpage (advice from CEOP Education at the National Crime Agency). You can report online sexual abuse to one of their Child Protection Advisors at the CEOP Safety Centre.

Look at our How to stay safe online webpage.

If you're ever in immediate harm or danger, call the police on 999 straightaway.