AN ANONYMOUS free helpline to support victims of child sexual exploitation (CSE) has been launched by Avon and Somerset Police.


The 24-hour phone and SMS helpline, launched on June 29, has been created as part of a wider campaign, called Say Something, aimed at educating young people about CSE and helping them to identify early indicators of it.


Detective chief inspector Simon Crisp, force lead for CSE, said: “CSE is something that can affect young people from all walks of life and any community.


“All helpline calls will be handled by trained advisors who have experience in dealing with sensitive issues.
“In Avon and Somerset, we are resolute in our determination to identify offenders and bring them to justice, while providing support for victims and raising awareness of the issue."


Say Something has been launched by the NWG Network, which works to tackle CSE, and the national charity Missing People with funding from the Department of Education.


Missing People will deliver the helpline, which can be reached on 116000, and also a reporting service which will see information passed to police forces and relevant agencies to allow them to respond accordingly.


For information about the signs of child sexual exploitation, alongside links to help & support, visit hwww.avonandsomerset.police.uk.