Appropriate Language: Child Exploitation

The HMICFRS inspection report on the effectiveness of the police and law enforcement bodies’ response to group-based child sexual exploitation in England and Wales (2023) recommended that: 

"With immediate effect, all chief constables should take effective steps to eradicate victim-blaming language in their forces." 

The Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) Taskforce has commissioned The Children’s Society and the National Association for People Abused in Childhood (NAPAC) to update an Appropriate Language Guide originally created by The Children’s Society in 2017 which can be used by multi-agency professionals.  

The language used by professionals and society reinforces the shame and guilt felt by victims or survivors. 

It can further create barriers between professionals and young people as it may lead to a young person thinking they will not be believed or supported if they share their experience of abuse. This message is often reinforced by exploiters who will try and distance the young person from safeguarding professionals and positive influences.   

When victim blaming is used, abusers are absolved and the risk or harm to the child or person is overlooked. 

It’s important to remember that children can never consent to their own abuse.  

Victim blaming language refers to any language that implies, intentionally or unintentionally, that a victim is responsible for the abuse they have experienced. 

The language we use is shaped by and normalised within the cultures we work, live, and spend time in. As language evolves, phrases that were once commonly accepted may no longer be appropriate. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain an open and reflective attitude to make sure that our language evolves in a way that supports and respects all individuals. 

‘Involved in’ 

Why is it a problem?

This implies there is a level of choice regarding the child being abused. A five-year-old would never be referred to as being involved in sexual abuse for the same reasons. 

The reality 

Children can never consent to their own abuse. The use of this terminology may imply the child or person being exploited is able to make an informed choice and therefore minimises the coercion and control of the abuser.  

What should be done? 

Using appropriate language can help professionals to reframe the idea of choice and control, to one of exploitation and abuse. This shift encourages appropriate safeguarding interventions which lead to improved support and outcomes for children. 

For more examples of inappropriate language and suggested alternatives, download child exploitation and abuse: an appropriate language guide in English and Welsh.

Supporting Documents 

To access the supporting documents and resources go to the Hydrant or NAPAC webpage.