Raising Awareness in Sexual Exploitation
The RAiSE Project began in 2016 funded by the Women and Girls Initiative. It provides direct work for young females aged 13- 25 years who are at medium or high risk of Child Sexual Exploitation and Criminal Exploitation.
Our specialist worker provides intensive and structured support to reduce risk in cases of Child Sexual Exploitation within Nottinghamshire.
RAiSE also works within schools and is available in workshop or training formats for professionals and young people including in alternative education settings, group work with vulnerable people, youth clubs and settings where there is a need to raise awareness around exploitation and grooming of vulnerable young people.
In 2018-2019 RAiSE delivered workshops to over 450 pupils in Nottingham City schools to raise awareness around grooming, consent and health relationships.
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 RAiSE project to overcome obstacles they are facing. The RAiSE project 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 13 – 25 who is worried about being harmed or exploited, if you want confidential advice or support please contact the RAiSE project and call through to our office on 0115 924 9992 or e-mail admin@pow-advice.co.uk. While we aim to work confidentially, 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 the RAiSE project so that you can help prevent harm.
Sexual exploitation can be difficult to spot and sometimes mistaken for “normal” teenage behaviour. Knowing the signs can help protect children 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 sexually exploited. They might be worried or confused and less likely to speak to an adult they trust.
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