STEP (Safeguarding against Trafficking and Exploitation Project)
STEP first began as the RAiSE Project (Raising Awareness in Sexual Exploitation) in 2016, funded by the Women and Girls Initiative. It provided direct work for young females aged 13- 25 years who were at medium or high risk of Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) and Criminal Exploitation (CCE).
STEP now works in Nottingham to deliver direct work and interventions to young people aged 10-25 years old who are at risk of, or experiencing, exploitation. The project provides individual support for young people and their families, who have been affected by sexual exploitation, county lines, gang risk, online exploitation and other forms of harm. Our specialist worker provides intensive and structured support to reduce risk.
STEP also works in community settings, delivering workshops and raising awareness around exploitation affecting young people. Our specialist worker can deliver workshops to students and staff in schools, colleges and other settings such as the youth clubs. There are also workshops tailored towards helping parents recognise signs of abuse and exploitation to prevent harm to the children they care for.
For Professionals and Parents
If you are a professional or parent that is concerned about a young person please contact us for a referral to the project by e-mail – admin@pow-advice.co.uk
All referrals must be consensual and the young person must have a wish to engage with the STEP to overcome obstacles they are facing. STEP works through various topics and stages, increasing in intensity and subject matter to educate, raise awareness and reduce risk, with the ultimate aim of eliminating risk for that young person around the area of exploitation.
For Young People
If you are a young person aged 10 – 25 who is worried about being harmed or exploited, and you want confidential advice or support please contact the STEP and call through to our office on 0115 924 9992 or e-mail admin@pow-advice.co.uk. While we aim to work confidentially, however if we think that you or anybody else is at risk of serious harm we may have to pass on information to people who need to know.
If you are concerned about a friend or somebody you know being exploited please tell a trusted adult or let them know about STEP so that you can help prevent harm.
Exploitation can be difficult to spot and sometimes mistaken for “normal” teenage behaviour. Knowing the signs can help protect young people and help them when they’ve no one else to turn to. Here are some things to look out for if you think a friend, family member or someone you know might need help:
🚩Unhealthy or inappropriate sexual behaviour.
🚩Being frightened of some people, places or situations.
🚩Being secretive.
🚩Sharp changes in mood or character.
🚩Having money or things they can’t or won’t explain.
🚩Physical signs of abuse, like bruises or bleeding in their genital or anal area.
🚩Alcohol or drug misuse.
🚩Sexually transmitted infections.
🚩Pregnancy.
🚩Having an older boyfriend or girlfriend.
🚩Staying out late or overnight.
🚩Having a new group of friends.
🚩Missing from home or care, or stopping going to school or college.
🚩Hanging out with older people, other vulnerable people or in antisocial groups.
🚩Involved in a gang.
🚩Involved in criminal activities like selling drugs or shoplifting.
🚩They may not know where they are, because they’ve been moved around the country, and seem frightened, confused or angry.
A child might know they’re being exploited. They might be worried or confused and less likely to speak to an adult they trust.
We have social media accounts for STEP. For more information follow us: