Child abuse awareness film to hit cinemas during half term

The I Didn’t Know campaign is aimed at young people and their parents and explains how to recognise CSE and what to do to get help and support.

CSE is a form of sexual abuse that involves the manipulation or coercion of young people under the age of 18 into sexual activity.

Roger Hirst, Police and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “We must help families to recognise the signs of CSE and take steps to guard against it.

“The stories in this film are based on real life testimony, and I applaud the courage of the young people who’ve contributed to this project.

“It is encouraging that a number of agencies, including Essex Police and the local authority safeguarding boards are working together to protect our young people.

“I urge everyone – whether you’re a parent, a teacher, a doctor, a taxi driver or just on a night out – to look out for the signs of CSE, and report any concerns you may have to police.”

The countywide campaign originally launched back in March as a partnership project between Southend , Thurrock and Essex Safeguarding Children Boards and Essex Police.

The aim of the campaign is to break down the myths around CSE and encourage members of the public to report any concerns they may have.

Dick Madden, Essex County Council’s member for adults and children said: “Raising awareness of child sexual exploitation is a big challenge, as there are many myths and stereotypes linked to CSE from recent cases in the news.

“This film shows the community that any child in any community can be vulnerable to exploitation. Everyone can make a difference by being vigilant to the signs of CSE and reporting their concerns.”

Deputy Chief Constable Matthew Horne said: “There is no more important issue for Essex Police than protecting children from crimes such as child sexual exploitation.

“This campaign is about raising awareness of CSE, what to look out for, how to spot the signs and where to get help.”

Vist essex.police.uk./cse