What staff might notice
Some possible signs of child exploitation that could be visible to staff in leisure and hospitality are;
a) Concerning situations
- Young people appearing frightened, controlled or distressed
- Adults or peers waiting nearby and monitoring them
- Repeated visits without clear purpose
b) Behavioural signs
- Avoiding staff or eye contact
- Being told not to speak
- Carrying items they seem uncomfortable with
c) Environmental indicators
- Frequent short visits
- Young people being moved between locations
Hotels
More likely to notice:
- Repeated short stays or visits
- Young people accompanied by different adults
- Attempts to avoid staff interaction
- Requests that limit room access or visibility
- Guests providing a local address to a hotel
- Walk-in bookings – no luggage
- Frequent visitors to the same room
Fast‑food & leisure venues
More likely to notice:
- Young people hanging around for long periods
- Repeated short visits, especially late at night
- Waiting to be collected by unknown people
- Being told where to sit, stand or go
- Being asked to hold items or watch belongings
Remember, you are not expected to be certain or investigate. Noticing patterns and reporting concerns can help protect a young person.
Useful Resources:
- Show these videos to staff to increase their awareness; Operation Makesafe: Raising community awareness of child exploitation (Youtube – 8:22 mins)
- Barnardo's | Child Sexual Exploitation | Nightwatch: Empowering The Night Time Economy To Tackle CSE (3:52)
- NWG have created some case studies you can use to practice staff responses; case-study.pdf; Microsoft Word - SSIYSS | Training Activity | Is it or isn't it? R2.docx