When should I report?
If you’re worried that your child is being groomed online or sexually exploited you should report your concerns to CEOP.
It is not always easy to spot the signs of online grooming and sexual exploitation so if you have any concern at all about someone your child is in contact with, you should get in touch.
You should always report if your child is or has been in contact with someone who is:
- Chatting online to your child about sex
- Asking them to do sexual things on webcam
- Asking to meet up if they’ve only met them online
- Requesting sexual pictures
- Forcing them into sexual activity
- Making them feel unsafe
CEOP is part of the National Crime Agency and can investigate what is happening – with the assurance that the safety and wellbeing of your child is paramount at all times.
If you are concerned that your child is in immediate danger, call 999.
How do I make a report?
You can make a report to CEOP using the CEOP Safety Centre.
You will need to complete an online form which will ask you for your contact details and information about what has happened. It will ask:
- What happened?
- Who did it happen to?
- What do you know about the suspect involved?
You should complete the form as fully as you can but don’t worry if you don’t have all of the details.
Do I have to give my name?
When completing a CEOP report you are reporting suspicions of crime to law enforcement so we can’t receive anonymous reports.
If you want to discuss your concerns with someone first then call the NSPCC Helpline on 0808 800 5000.
Who receives the report and what happens next?
All of the reports are reviewed by our Child Protection Advisors. They will:
- Read the report and assess the risk to your child
- Look to make contact with you to discuss next steps
- Give safeguarding advice and support
Supporting your child
It is important to remember that it can be difficult for a child to come forward and tell an adult what has happened to them – they are often embarrassed, fear adults won’t understand, scared they will get into trouble or that adults will over react. Ensure you tell your child that whatever has happened, it is not their fault and you are on their side.
Finding out your child has been sexually abused can be a traumatic experience. You may need additional support to come to terms with what has happened to your child.