Roles and responsibilities of agencies to address CCE

While it is our collective responsibility, each agency involved in safeguarding has a clear role and distinct responsibilities, underpinned by statutory duties and legal frameworks including The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the Safeguarding Board Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. These provide the legal basis for multi-agency safeguarding and child protection. However, collaboration and shared accountability through audits, inspections, or inter-agency reviews are essential to ensure that children and young people are protected, supported, and recognised as victims of abuse.

Those who abuse children and young people through criminal and sexual exploitation often manipulate them into believing there’s no escape, using their vulnerability to maintain control. It’s vital that trusted adults consistently reassure children and young people that support is available and that they can find a way out.

Children and young people who have been coerced into exploitation may resist offers of help. They might not recognise their experiences as exploitation, or they may fear retaliation for speaking out against those who have harmed them.

In some cases, a child or young person may only seek help following a significant or traumatic event, such as sustaining a serious injury, witnessing violence, or experiencing the death of someone close to them. When this happens, practitioners must respond swiftly and effectively. Failing to do so could result in the child or young person being exploited further or pressured back into harmful situations.

The complex overlap between a child or young person’s coercion into criminal activity and their victimisation through exploitation demands a coordinated, multi-agency response. It is essential that agencies work collaboratively to address the harms associated with CCE and ensure consistent, child-centred interventions.

Establishing clear roles and responsibilities is crucial for ensuring that all practitioners involved in addressing CCE can work together efficiently and effectively. It helps to minimise overlaps and gaps in service delivery, thereby enhancing the overall response. It is important to regularly review and update roles to reflect any changes in the operational environment or emerging practices.