Prioritise the prevention of child sexual exploitation in London

The Metropolitan Police reported 1,612 child sexual exploitation (CSE) referrals from January to October 2014. Yet, child sexual exploitation is not currently one of the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC) 7 priority areas.

What lessons can we learn in London following the high-profile cases in Rotherham, Oxfordshire and Derby? How can we prevent similar cases of abuse in the capital?

The London Assembly Police and Crime Committee report, ‘Confronting Child Sexual Exploitation in London’ explores London’s approach to protecting children and young people from sexual exploitation.

The report asks MOPAC to set out a clear performance monitoring framework for CSE. It also lists a number of recommendations to the agencies responsible for safeguarding children, including:

• Effective monitoring and regular review of CSE strategies and procedures;
• A structure in place to share information and map CSE – including data from across London;
• A forum in place to engage with children and young people affected by CSE.

Joanne McCartney AM, Chair of the Police and Crime Committee said:

“The Committee recognises that progress has been made, but we know that there is more to be done. We’re seeking assurances from London’s Directors of Children’s Services, the London Safeguarding Children Board and Local Safeguarding Children Boards, that all London boroughs have robust measures in place to protect the capital’s children and young people from sexual exploitation.

The Committee’s recommendations will help to ensure that the system in London is fit for purpose and delivers the level of protection at risk children deserve.”