University films aim to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation

A series of short and easily accessible films that highlight key messages from research and learning on Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) have been released by the University of Bedfordshire. They are for all those concerned with safeguarding children and young people at risk of and affected by CSE.

The films were launched on Child Sexual Exploitation Awareness Day (Wed 18 March) and produced by the university’s International Centre for Researching child sexual exploitation, violence, and trafficking.

The films share the findings of a range of studies undertaken by researchers from the centre, as well as drawing on wider CSE literature.

Professor Jenny Pearce Director of the International Centre said: “These films will examine the key issues facing those working with young people affected by CSE. You may be a busy social worker, police officer or a foster carer; but these films will give you the opportunity to incorporate the latest research into your practice.

“No one agency has holds the solution to child sexual exploitation,” continued Prof Pearce. “We need to keep working together to create ongoing evidence arising from, and informing, best practice. This way we can challenge misconceptions and build sustainable interventions that support children and young people affected by CSE.”

Most of the films are under two minutes long and each is accompanied by a short briefing document that outlines the evidence in more detail, with references and links to the original research and questions for reflection.

The team hope the key messages from the films will improve practice in the protection of children and young people and stimulate further collaboration with the Centre.

The films are:

    1. 10 key facts about child sexual exploitation, Dr Helen Beckett
    2. Child sexual exploitation: a social model of consent, Professor Jenny Pearce, OBE
    3. Peer-on-peer child sexual exploitation, George Curtis
    4. Gang associated sexual exploitation and violence, Dr Helen Beckett
    5. Safeguarding teenagers from sexual exploitation and violence outside the home, Carlene Firmin, MBE
    6. What young people affected by sexual exploitation have told us about the support they want from you, Fiona Factor
    7. Raising community awareness of child sexual exploitation, Dr Kate D’Arcy
    8. Parents as partners in safeguarding children from sexual exploitation, Roma Thomas
    9. Managing child sexual exploitation workers in multi-agency teams, Dr Julie Harris
    10. Making justice work for victims and witnesses in child sexual exploitation cases, Dr Camille Warrington
    11. Multi-dimensional safety for children in care affected by sexual exploitation, Dr Lucie Shuker
    12. Successful reintegration for separated children, Claire Cody

For further information and view the films please go to www.beds.ac.uk/ic/films