July Safeguarding Spotlight: Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

The British Judo Association is introducing a new bi-monthly Safeguarding Spotlight to highlight key issues that clubs, coaches, and welfare officers should be aware of. These topics are chosen based on concerns raised through MyVoice, with the aim of increasing awareness and helping the judo community stay informed, alert, and better equipped to respond.

This month’s safeguarding spotlight focuses on Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) – an issue that has returned to public attention following the recent Baroness Casey Review and the government’s national audit on group-based abuse.

CSE is a form of sexual abuse. It happens when a child or young person under 18 is tricked, pressured, or forced into sexual activity – often in exchange for things like attention, gifts, money, or affection. It can happen in person, online, or both.

Many young people don’t realise they are being exploited. Abusers often build trust first – this is called grooming. They might pretend to be in a relationship or make the child feel dependent on them. In some cases, children are threatened with having private images or messages shared if they don’t do what the abuser wants. This is sometimes known as sextortion.

CSE can affect any child, but abusers often target those who are vulnerable. They might use age, status, gender, emotional need, or access to money and resources to control or manipulate a young person.

The law in the UK is clear. Grooming and sexual communication with a child are criminal offences, even if no physical contact takes place. The Sexual Offences Act 2003 and updates in 2017 allow police and safeguarding teams to step in early, before abuse occurs.

As part of your club’s safeguarding approach, it’s important to be aware of signs of exploitation or grooming. These might include secretive behaviour, unexplained gifts, sudden changes in friendships, or signs of distress. If you are ever unsure, speak to your Club Welfare Officer or contact the BJA Safeguarding Team.

In an emergency, always call 999.

For those who want to learn more, several helpful resources are available:

• Government guidance on Child Sexual Exploitation (GOV.UK)

• NSPCC: Protecting children from sexual exploitation

• Operation Makesafe awareness video (Trigger Warning: sensitive content)

• Barnardo’s – Resources to help identify and engage young people at risk of sexual abuse and exploitation

These links offer clear, practical information and are worth bookmarking if you’re involved in safeguarding within your club.

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