Grooming is when someone builds a relationship, trust and emotional connection with a child or young person so they can make them do what they want and abuse them. It can lead to sexual abuse, exploitation and trafficking.

Child grooming can happen online or in person. It can be a stranger, or someone the child knows.

A groomer may build a romantic relationship, become a mentor or an authority figure. They may also build a relationship with family and friends over time, so that people trust them.

Online child grooming can happen in:

• chat rooms
• video games
• social media
• text messages and apps like WhatsApp

A child groomer may:

• pretend they are younger than they are
• give advice and attention
• buy gifts
• take a child on trips and holidays

Contact us if you are concerned that a child is being groomed.

Advice on the signs of grooming and further support can be found on the NSPCC website.