Child criminal exploitation (CCE) often takes place beyond the family home—in schools, neighbourhoods, peer groups, and online spaces. Recognising and responding to this form of harm requires a shift in practice that considers the wider context of young people’s lives. This course introduces the principles of contextual safeguarding and equips professionals with the tools to identify and support children affected by exploitation.

Participants will explore how children may be coerced or manipulated into criminal activity, the warning signs of exploitation, and the language and behaviours that may indicate risk. The course also unpacks the evolving tactics used by exploiters and the challenges young people face in exiting exploitative situations.

Through real-life case examples, attendees will learn how to assess risk in extra-familial settings, advocate effectively for young people, and escalate concerns to the appropriate safeguarding pathways. The training emphasises a child-centred, trauma-informed approach that prioritises safety, trust, and long-term support.

By the end of the course, participants will feel more confident in recognising exploitation, responding appropriately, and working in partnership to disrupt harm and protect young people.

Ideal for:

• Youth justice and safeguarding professionals
• Social workers and early help practitioners
• Teachers, school safeguarding leads, and education staff
• Police officers and community safety teams
• Foster carers, mentors, and residential workers

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the signs, risks, and impact of child criminal exploitation
• Recognising language and behaviours that may indicate exploitation
• Applying contextual safeguarding frameworks to assess risk
• Tools and strategies for engaging exploited young people
• Pathways for escalation, referral, and multi-agency response

Additional Benefits:

• Develop a deeper understanding of peer and place-based risks
• Learn trauma-informed, non-judgemental approaches to support
• Build confidence in acting early and advocating for young people
• Enhance collaboration with local partners to disrupt exploitation

This course is essential for professionals working with young people who may be at risk of exploitation, and for those seeking to build safer environments in which young people can thrive.