It has been realised in recent years, that there has been a considerable amount of past Sexual abuse that has gone unrecognised. Given that the effects to an individual’s life can be so damaging, we as a society must remain vigilant: the risks of CSE are ever present and may take on new forms enabled by future cultural and technological change. At this present time, there is a disturbing mix of factors that have the potential to heighten the risk of child sexual exploitation. As an independent Fostering agency providing Fostering Services that include training and support around CSE; we feel it important close attention is paid to general trends within society that create a climate facilitating CSE.  Simply consider: In a recent annual report produced by the Children’s Society it was stated that amongst 10 – 15 year old girls, 14% are unhappy with their lives generally and 34% are specifically unhappy with their appearance. This information is backed up by recent research produced by the Department for Education: this has shown that the mental well-being of teenage girls in England has worsened, as compared to their counterparts in 2005. The reasons put forward, have included a perceived worsening of the general economic climate, but the effects of social media are now heavily implicated – with girls being especially vulnerable. The report highlights that females are more likely than boys to spend extended periods of time on social media, and it has been mooted that this has played a significant part in heightening risk of mental health problems. Adding to what is a worrying landscape: the charity NSPCC who run the service ChildLine report holding 19,481 counselling sessions in 2015/16 specifically about suicide. This was equal to a call being made every half hour. The president of Childline

‎ Dame Esther Rantzen found the figures “deeply disturbing”. NSPCC chief executive Peter Wanless commented: “We have to understand why so many children are reaching such a desperate emotional state that they feel they have no option but to end their lives.”

These reports can leave no doubt that young children have become more vulnerable – especially with regard to issues of self-esteem. Providers of fostering services must recognise this makes them susceptible to predatory and cynical abusers, who understand that showing understanding and sympathy is a very effective route to making a child feel ‘valued’. And it is then a short step to that child becoming dependent upon a relationship that can quickly become abusive.

Fostering services need to focus on the broader picture

Keeping in mind these broader societal changes is important: they give a contextual background that can throw into relief the signs indicating sexual exploitation is taking place. It can be hard to identify if abuse is taking place: warning signals are easily construed as normal adolescent behaviour. Signs that can be an indication include: truancy – going missing from home, spending time with groups or gangs made up of older individuals, spending time in out of the way places – parks – or even hotels, associating with young people known to have been involved with CSE, have physical injuries that cannot be easily explained, becoming involved in petty crime and then also to show changes in mood and physical appearance. If abuse is actually taking place, a child might show signs of overt sexualization, become promiscuous or start to use sexual language and terminology not normally associated with such a young person. And language can be extremely significant: thoughts about suicide or self harming may be expressed. Children who are being fostered – especially those who are experiencing frequent placement breakdowns are at a particular risk, This is because they tend not to be present for long enough with adults able to detect changes in patterns of behaviour. The type of family background can also play a part in indicating risk: children whose parents have divorced or separated may be more prone; similarly, children who live with only one parent, or step- parents, may be at increased risk. Additionally, parents leading chaotic lives, possibly involving drug or alcohol addiction; or parents who display violent and abusive behaviour themselves, can leave a child at increased risk of CSE.

This means raising awareness amongst care professionals of the signs of child sexual exploitation is vital. It is known that falling victim to sexual abuse can have devastating effects on a child that can stay with them for the rest of their lives. Although each and every situation will be different, there is research available that describes the likely general effects of being a victim of CSE.

The effects of CSE: how fostering services can help victims

Child sexual exploitation can adversely affect the life chances of a young person. It may mean they find it extremely difficult to create relationships, or be able to properly integrate with wider society. They may never escape unemployment, mental health issues, addictive behaviour (drugs, alcohol), aggressive behaviour and criminal behaviour.

It is important to be aware of the child’s feelings if abuse is discovered to have taken place. Guilt can mean children often blame themselves for the abuse; they then may feel guilty for reporting the abuse itself. These feelings can then be combined with a strong sense of shame – as well as confusion. It is common for children to fear the repercussions of disclosure: there may be a real fear of the perpetrator, as well as fear of their family breaking up. This is especially the case if the abuse has been committed by a family member.

The most important thing is to offer a child reassurance. When talking to a child about such a sensitive issue, it is important to recognise that you; if you are the carer; for example, need to understand and manage your own feelings before any discussion takes place. Be a good listener letting the child know you will always be there for them. If a court case is likely, understand a child may be fearful and reluctant to engage with the process. It should always be recognised that it requires considerable courage to report a sexual assault. Never ascribe blame – either to a child or to yourself. It is important to not dwell on the sexual aspects of the assault – let a child decide when they wish to talk about their feelings. A child may display anger and become angry with you: this is usually a displacement activity. They may shout, swear and even hit out (they should  be encouraged to vent anger by hitting a pillow). A child who becomes a victim of CSE has experienced a direct attack upon their developing physical and psychological boundaries. They will need to go through a process of re-establishing these – counselling may well be required – but it is important that as the carer, you maintain existing household rules and boundaries. The most important thing is to be consistent, dependable and be able to  provide ongoing reassurance. When providing fostering services in the area of exploitation, it is essential to be aware of all these dynamics.

And the good news at the end of this weeks fostering rainbow…as an independent fostering agency, when developing our fostering services, we have the freedom to create fresh new initiatives: one such is our MIPRO project. This has attracted the interest and support of some leading brands, and is geared toward providing post 18 training opportunities for our young people. If you want more information about our range of fostering services, contact the team at Rainbow on 020 8427 3355

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