Children & Young People

Young people can be especially vulnerable to certain types of crime because of their age, relationships, independence developing at different rates, and increased exposure to online and social environments. These crimes can have longlasting emotional, physical and psychological effects, making awareness and early support essential.

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse does not only happen to adults. Young people can experience abuse within their own intimate relationships or within the family home. Young people may not recognise their experiences as “abuse”, particularly if it happens within their first relationship or if they are financially or emotionally dependent on the abuser.

Sexual Violence and Abuse

Young people can experience sexual abuse in many ways, including both online and offline. Sexual abuse involves any sexual activity that happens without consent, or where a child or young person is manipulated, pressured, exploited or forced. Sexual violence can be carried out by strangers, peers, partners, or trusted adults. Young people are never responsible for the abuse happening to them.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

CSE is a form of sexual abuse where an abuser exploits a young person through manipulation, coercion or deception. CSE can happen online, in person, or through gangs and criminal networks. Many young people do not realise they are being exploited until the abuse escalates or becomes harmful.

Criminal Exploitation and County Lines

Criminal exploitation happens when young people are manipulated, coerced or threatened into committing crimes, often by organised groups.

This can include:

• County lines drug running
• Transporting or storing drugs
• Carrying weapons
• Debt bondage (“you owe us”)
• Threats to family

Young people involved in criminal exploitation are victims, even if the activity appears to be voluntary.

Online Harassment, Bullying and Exploitation

Online spaces can create additional risks for young people, including:

• Cyberbullying
• Sexting pressure or imagebased abuse
• Identity theft or fraud
• Online grooming
• Exposure to harmful content
• Stalking and harassment

Because much of young people’s social life takes place online, digital abuse can feel constant and overwhelming.