Annex B: Disruption Strategies and Legal Framework

Effectively understanding and applying disruption techniques is vital in reducing the likelihood of children and young people being criminally exploited. Any assessment of Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) must consider the actions and influence of those responsible. Individuals who exploit children and young people should be held accountable for their abusive behaviour. These perpetrators often involve young people in dangerous, low-level tasks to shield themselves from law enforcement. As they continuously adapt and refine their operations, strong collaboration and information sharing across agencies is essential to stay ahead of the evolving tactics used in serious organised crime and exploitation.

Helping children and young people make sense of complex legal processes is essential to encouraging their active involvement with support services. Many young people express confusion about being caught between two systems, one designed to protect them, and another that appears to criminalise their actions. Offering clear, age-appropriate explanations and guidance can help build their confidence and trust, making them more likely to engage in safeguarding and legal proceedings.

It is also important that children and young people receive appropriate legal representation. Sharing relevant information with legal professionals ensures that the context of their exploitation is considered when addressing any offences. When children are identified by PSNI in connection with serious organised crime, their involvement should trigger child protection responses, especially where adult coercion is evident.

The PPS operates independently but works closely with PSNI and other safeguarding partners to ensure that cases involving CCE are handled with sensitivity and fairness. The PPS assess evidence submitted by investigative agencies, making prosecution decisions, and presenting cases in court. Their work ensures that perpetrators are held accountable and that victims are supported through the legal process.

Approaches like contextual safeguarding can help agencies close the gap between protecting children and understanding the methods used by perpetrators. By mapping relationships, incidents, and safe or unsafe environments, professionals can identify areas of risk and exploitation. Exploring alternative strategies and pathways supports a more holistic approach to preventing further harm and promoting safety.

The following contribution from the Department of Justice outlines practical tools for disrupting exploitation and supporting multi-agency enforcement. While the broader practitioner guidance in relation to child criminal exploitation has been produced by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), this section reflects the Department’s specific remit and expertise in criminal justice responses to child exploitation.