Speaking to children about exploitation

Finding out your child is being criminally or sexually exploited can be shocking and upsetting. Many young people don't disclose what has happened to them due to fear, shame and even lack of awareness that they are being exploited. 

Healthy parent-child relationships will make it easier for the young person to open up about what they are going through. To start a conversation about exploitation can be the hardest part, therefore parents should think through the choice of words they use when speaking to young people. 

• Look for common signs of exploitation. 

• Take small steps toward building trust and starting the conversation 

• Create a confidential and safe space for trust-based conversations

• Let the child know that it is not their fault