The National Police Chief’s Council and The Children’s Society have launched a campaign to raise awareness of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation during COVID-19.
The campaign is designed for key workers visiting premises during the crisis and also to raise public awareness of the signs to look out for and how to report any concerns.
The campaign encourages people to LOOK for key signs including:
Sudden changes in behaviour
Guarded behaviour of a child around particular individuals
Children with bruises, burns, bite marks or fractures
Children appearing withdrawn, anxious or frightened
Hearing or seeing shouting and violence towards a child
Children seen carrying or using drugs
Children being late or arriving home late in different cars
Unaccompanied children visiting a house where only adults live
It encourages people to ACT if they suspect a child is at harm:
Stay curious and look beyond the obvious
If something doesn’t feel right, it might not be
Even if you’re unsure, it’s better to report your concerns
Do not attempt to intervene yourself
If you have a safeguarding manager / lead within your organisation, notify them immediately
Call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency
Call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000