Understanding Sexual Exploitation
Sexual exploitation is a serious form of abuse that can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and circumstances. It often involves manipulation, coercion, threats, or control, where an individual is pressured or forced into sexual activity for someone else’s gain. Many survivors may not immediately recognise what is happening, particularly when exploitation is linked to emotional dependency, financial pressure, or fear.
Sexual exploitation does not always look the same. For some, it develops gradually through grooming, emotional manipulation, or promises of support or protection. For others, it may involve sudden situations of control, intimidation, or violence. Exploitation can occur in person or online and may affect children, young people, and adults. Survivors may experience isolation, restricted freedom, withheld documents, or fear of speaking out.
The impact of sexual exploitation goes far beyond the immediate harm. It can affect mental and physical health, trust, self-worth, relationships, and a person’s sense of safety and control. Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, trauma responses, shame, or fear of judgement. Access to early, specialist support is essential. Our approach focuses on safety, understanding, and helping individuals regain stability, confidence, and autonomy.
Recognizing Exploitation
Understanding the signs can help protect yourself and others
Sexual Trafficking
- Forced into commercial sex
- Movement restricted
- Debt bondage
- Documents withheld
- Threats to family
- Isolation from support
Child Sexual Exploitation
- Unexplained gifts or money
- Older boyfriend/girlfriend
- Missing from home/school
- Drug or alcohol use
- Secretive behavior
- Physical signs of abuse
Online Exploitation
- Forced to create explicit content
- Online grooming
- Webcam exploitation
- Image-based abuse
- Sextortion
- Live streaming abuse
Our Approach to Sexual Exploitation Support
We believe that anyone affected by sexual exploitation deserves to be treated with dignity, belief, and care. National Care Trust provides confidential, specialist support designed to prioritise safety, emotional wellbeing, and practical recovery, delivered in ways that respect each individual’s circumstances.
Our support is guided by three core principles:
1. Safety and Trust
Safety is our first priority. We provide secure, confidential spaces where individuals can speak openly without fear of judgement or pressure. Our trained professionals understand the complexities of exploitation and work carefully to build trust, assess risk, and support survivors at their own pace.
2. Accessible and Confidential Support
We recognise that fear, control, stigma, or practical barriers can prevent survivors from seeking help. To reduce these barriers, we offer discreet and accessible support options, including remote services, allowing individuals to reach out safely and privately. All support is handled with strict confidentiality and safeguarding procedures.
3. Practical Guidance and Recovery
Support goes beyond listening alone. Survivors often need help navigating next steps, understanding their rights, and rebuilding independence. Our team provides personalised guidance, helping individuals access appropriate services, strengthen coping strategies, and take steps toward long-term safety and recovery.
Our Commitment to Survivors
Providing specialised, trauma-informed support to survivors of sexual exploitation
1
%
Feel Safer After Support
80
%
Confidential Service
14
/7
Confidential Support
2000
+
Survivors Supported
Why Sexual Exploitation Support Matters
Sexual exploitation is often hidden and under-reported. Many survivors feel unable to speak out due to fear, shame, threats, or lack of trust in support systems. Having access to specialist, trauma-informed support can be life-changing.
Timely support can help reduce ongoing harm, improve emotional wellbeing, and support survivors in regaining control over their lives. It also plays a vital role in safeguarding, prevention, and breaking cycles of abuse. Providing clear, accessible routes to support helps individuals feel believed, protected, and supported when they need it most.
Specialised Support Services
Comprehensive, confidential support designed specifically for exploitation survivors
Crisis Support Line
Confidential support for survivors of sexual exploitation and trafficking
- Trauma-informed counselors
- Safety planning
Safety & Protection
Comprehensive safety planning and protection services for those at risk
- Safe house referrals
- Security planning
- Legal protection
- Emergency relocation
Specialised Therapy
Trauma-informed therapy specifically designed for exploitation survivors
- PTSD treatment
- Trauma therapy
- Group counseling
- Recovery planning
Legal Support
Legal advocacy and support for survivors navigating the justice system
- Legal advocacy
- Court support
- Rights information
- Compensation claims
Our Commitment
At National Care Trust, we are committed to supporting survivors of sexual exploitation with compassion, respect, and care. We work to ensure that no one feels blamed, dismissed, or unsupported when seeking help.
We understand how difficult it can be to reach out, and we strive to make our services safe, confidential, and responsive to individual needs. Whether someone is seeking immediate support or exploring their options, we are here to listen, protect, and support recovery.
If you or someone you know may be affected by sexual exploitation, support is available. You are not alone, and help can be accessed safely and confidentially.
Popular Questions
Our services are available to children, young people, and adults who may be experiencing or recovering from sexual exploitation, as well as those concerned about someone else’s safety.
Yes. All support is provided confidentially, with safeguarding measures in place to protect individuals and respond appropriately where there is immediate risk.
You do not need to be certain. If something does not feel right, our team can help you talk through your concerns and understand your options in a safe, supportive way.
No. Accessing support does not require police involvement. Any decisions about reporting are made by the individual, unless safeguarding concerns require immediate action.