The Department for Education provides the following definition:
Child sexual exploitation is a form of child sexual abuse. Sexual abuse may involve physical contact, including assault by penetration (for example, rape or oral sex) or non- penetrative acts such as masturbation, kissing, rubbing and touching outside clothing. It may include non-contact activities, such as involving children in the production of sexual images, forcing children to look at sexual images or watch sexual activities, encouraging children to behave in sexually inappropriate ways or grooming a child in preparation for abuse (including via the internet).
The definition of child sexual exploitation is as follows:
Child sexual exploitation is a form of child sexual abuse. It occurs where an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity (a) in exchange for something the victim needs or wants, and/or (b) for the financial advantage or increased status of the perpetrator or facilitator. The victim may have been sexually exploited even if the sexual activity appears consensual. Child sexual exploitation does not always involve physical contact; it can also occur through the use of technology.
Child sexual exploitation:definition and guide for practitioners; DfE, 2017.
It is important to recognise the limitations of such tools. The Centre of Expertise on Child Sexual Exploitation has produced some infographics to highlight some of the issues and concerns around how these can be used and potentially inhibit the assessment of safeguarding victims robustly.
It is strongly advised that you seek advice and guidance from your local Families in Focus team.
This is a video resource created and designed by young people to raise awareness of CSE.
Avon and Somerset Police - the constabulary have a legal duty to safeguard children and young people from exploitation. If you are worried about someone being exploited it is important to raise it with the police. Operation Topaz is the police team who proactively support potential victims and disrupt grooming behaviours.
BASE (Banardo's against Sexual Exploitation) -Supports children and young people of all genders who are at risk of and survivors of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE).
Unity Sexual Health -A free and confidential service for Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.
Brook (Bristol) offers:
Social Work Toolbox - Resources for direct work with children and young people.
Please do check the wider Child Exploitation page for more generic support and resources.