Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of child sexual abuse.

The Department of Health defines this as occurring when “an individual or group takes advantage of an imbalance of power to coerce, manipulate or deceive a child or young person under the age of 18 into sexual activity”.

Children and young people are often provided with things in exchange for sex, such as gifts, money or protection. There is often a power imbalance with CSE. This can include factors such as age, status and gender. This form of abuse can happen online or in person.

The NSPCC provides further information on recognising and responding to CSE:

https://learning.nspcc.org.uk/child-abuse-and-neglect/child-sexual-exploitation

All young people attending sexual health services are assessed for risk of CSE.

There are five guidelines that must be met in order to provide sexual health and contraceptive services to under 16s without their parent/ guardian’s knowledge or consent

• the young person cannot be persuaded to inform their parents or carers that they are seeking this advice or treatment (or to allow the practitioner to inform their parents or carers).
• the young person understands the advice being given.
• the young person’s physical or mental health or both are likely to suffer unless they receive the advice or treatment.
• it is in the young person’s best interests to receive the advice, treatment or both without their parents’ or carers’ consent.
• the young person is very likely to continue having sex with or without contraceptive treatment.

(Gillick v West Norfolk, 1985)

A young person must be assessed for Gillick competence when wishing to receive medical treatment/ intervention without their parent/ guardian’s knowledge or consent. There is no set criteria, but healthcare professionals must take into account:

• Age, maturity and mental capacity
• Understanding of the issue – including advantages, disadvantages and potential long-term impact
• Understanding of the risks, implications and consequences that may arise from their decision
• How well they understand any advice or information
• Understanding of any alternative options, if available
• Ability to explain a rationale around their reasoning and decision making.