Spot the signs you need to look out for
There are a number of signs to look out for if you suspect a young person is being sexually or criminally exploited. If you recognise some of these behaviours then you should ask for help or report your concerns. If you can, keep a note of anything that worries you.
- Receiving unexplained gifts/items.
- Poor attendance at school or not going to college or work.
- Increased conflict and erratic behaviour.
- Bullying others.
- Irrational emotions and manic behaviour – ranging from extreme anger to extreme sadness.
- Becoming emotional or moody.
- Going missing or returning home late.
- Being picked up by unknown adults in unknown vehicles, including taxis and delivery vehicles.
- Returning home with injuries.
- Speaking to people online who are unknown to them.
- Signs of drug use or drug taking equipment.
- Sexual health concerns.
- Significant changes in presentation.
- A lack of personal hygiene.
- New and expensive clothing such as costly trainers.
- Becoming distant from family and friends.
- Becoming withdrawn from usual social networks.
- Self-harm, threatening suicide or suicide attempts.
- Excessive use of mobile phones.
- Using multiple mobile phones and SIM cards.
- Being secretive about their phone.
- Concerns raised by friends, neighbours or the local community.
- Possessing weapons.
- Getting arrested.
- Expressions around invincibility or not caring about what happens – ‘others have their back’ and ‘what’s the worst that can happen to them’.
- A sudden and over use of street language.