If you know the child or young person, look out for changes in behaviour. Even if the change seems related to other circumstances, it might be a sign that they are being abused.
Behaviour changes might be sudden and uncharacteristic of the child or young person. They might:
- miss school regularly
- go out all night
- be more aggressive
- be more withdrawn
- run away or go missing
- have new gifts, clothes, jewellery or other items that can't be accounted for
- be on their phone more, or secretive about using it
- be using drugs or alcohol
- get picked up or dropped off at home or school by unknown adults
- have a significantly older romantic relationship or group of friends
- spend lots of time online, or secretive about using it
- know about adult issues that seem inappropriate for their age
- get more involved in criminal behaviour
- have sexual health problems
- change their clothing habits so they are more covered up
If you do not know the child personally but you are worried, consider if you have seen them:
- go into a hotel with adults that don't seem to be related to them
- be in a hotel room that is later visited or requested by different adults
- go by taxi to a venue to meet a group of adults that do not seem to be family
- be out late or bought alcohol by adults that do not seem to be family
- be bought things by an older adult who they treat as their romantic partner
- anything that indicates sexual activity with an older person
- anything in an adult that indicated sexual activity with someone you know or suspect to be under 16
The NSPCC has more information about signs of child abuse, and can assist if you are concerned.