Child sexual exploitation

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of sexual abuse that occurs in all settings across Wales. Health professionals have a responsibility to identify and refer children and young people who may be at risk of CSE and play a key role in supporting vulnerable young people. Given the consequences for the physical and mental health of some of the children and young people who have been sexually exploited, CSE constitutes a major public health concern necessitating a systematic approach to prevention and intervention across NHS Wales.
 
Multiagency guidance describes the role of health professional and the CSE Prevention Strategy for the NHS in Wales 2016-19 has been published to further define the role of health organisations.

Welsh Government have produced guidance for organisations on how to protect children at risk of child sexual exploitation. The guidance is issued under section 28 of the Children Act 2004 and section 139 of the Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014.