Child Sexual Exploitation
Last updated: October 30, 2008
Table of Contents
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1. Introduction
In 2000 the Home Office published Setting the Boundaries, a review of the law on sex offences. This important document led to an overhaul and clarification of the law in the Sexual Offences Act 2003, including new offences to enable firm action to be taken against those who use and abuse children through prostitution and pornography.
This agenda has been taken forward in the published document A Coordinated Prostitution Strategy and a summary of responses to Paying the Price January 2006.
It is recognised that young people who are the victims of sexual abuse, through their involvement in child prostitution, are unfortunately a part of the culture in which we live but this is not acceptable. All children and young people have the right to be safe and protected from harm.
It is further recognised that the situation of such young people can only be safeguarded by a multi-agency approach to tackle the perpetrators, whilst working positively to protect the victims.
The Children Act 1989, provides the legal framework for the care and protection of children and young people in England and Wales and further protection is ensured through Local Safeguarding Children Boards and associated procedures.
