Families warned unexplained gifts could be sign of child abuse
UNEXPLAINED festive gifts could be a sign of sexual exploitation, council chiefs are warning.
Families are being reminded they need to be alert to the warning signs of child sexual exploitation.
It comes as the regional See Me, Hear Me campaign aims to highlight the 'hidden crime' ahead of Christmas.
Councillor Val Gibson, Wolverhampton council's cabinet member for children and young people, said: "During the festive season we know young people will have new things and often exchange gifts with each other.
"However, it’s so important for parents and carers to look out for anything unusual and know where or who new things are coming from.
"Unexplained gifts, along with other unusual behaviour such as mood swings, skipping school, being secretive and staying out late, are all signs which should not be ignored."
The See Me, Hear Me campaign launched in June 2014 by Dudley, Wolverhampton, Sandwell, Walsall, Coventry, Birmingham and Solihull councils, along with West Midlands Police, to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation.
The partnership is urging residents to keep a lookout for their children receiving unexplained gifts or cash, warning it could indicate 'something is wrong'.
It comes as the team release its animation 'The Warning Signs Were There' to raise awareness of the crime and help adults identify concerns.
The clip follows the story of a young girl groomed with gifts, alcohol and affection, to illustrate how her teacher, friend and father noticed changes in her behaviour.
Councillor Gibson added: "Child sexual exploitation can affect both girls and boys and being aware of the warning signs, and acting on them early, can help prevent abuse happening or escalating.
"We all have our part to play in protecting our children and young people from this horrific abuse and I would urge people to visit the See Me, Hear Me website to watch the film in full."
Child sexual exploitation involves perpetrators grooming their victims to gain their trust before emotionally and sexually abusing them.
Anyone concerned about the safety of a young person should call West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
For more information and to see the clip visit seeme-hearme.org.uk
