Telford MP welcomes launch of anti-exploitation unit

Lucy Allan said the new task force was a step in the right direction, but added that she would keep fighting to get recognition that child sexual exploitation is still happening.

The unit, set to launch in 2019, was announced by Children and Families Minister Nadhim Zahawi on Tuesday.

It will offer bespoke support to local councils to help stop child sexual exploitation, trafficking, modern slavery and other attempts by criminals to take advantage of vulnerable children and coerce them into crimes like drug trafficking.

Mr Zahawi said: "Exploitation of children in any form is an abhorrent crime and it is deeply saddening that vulnerable children and young people are prey to criminals.

"They are often at risk of multiple threats outside of their family lives, such as child sexual exploitation, gangs and county lines, and the new national unit will help local areas protect them from these threats and get the right support so they have the chance to succeed in life."

Ms Allan, who has lobbied ministers about CSE, said it was a step in the right direction.

She said: “I welcome this new initiative and I am pleased that the government has listened and taken my concerns seriously.

Support

“Local authorities need support in tackling issues of vulnerability which often leads to young people being exploited by gangs.

“I have repeatedly raised this issue in parliament for the past two years at debates, questions and meetings with ministers to highlight the challenges that these young people are facing, including being taken advantage of by criminal gangs.

“This announcement is a step in the right direction however, I will continue to raise this issue in parliament as it is important for the government to recognise that CSE is still happening across the country and is a real challenge for some local authorities.”

Victoria Atkins, minister for crime, safeguarding and vulnerability, said: "This government is committed to protecting children from all forms of exploitation and abuse, be it from county lines, gang activity or sexual abuse.

"This new unit, along with our £13m Trusted Relationships Fund and the Serious Violence Strategy, will provide vital support to children and help steer them away from destructive harms.