CE Awareness Week & Operation Henderson
What is Operation Henderson?
Operation Henderson brings together safeguarding partners, Police, transport providers, voluntary organisations and districts to:
- Raise awareness of how exploitation can present on transport networks
- Support staff, drivers and the public to spot concerns early
- Promote clear reporting routes
- Share information to help prevent harm and protect young people
The operation focuses on prevention and early intervention, not enforcement.
CE Awareness Week and transport networks
Child Exploitation Awareness Week is an annual opportunity for partners across Essex to work together to increase awareness, strengthen safeguarding and encourage early reporting.
During CE Awareness Week, Operation Henderson activity may include:
- Engagement with transport staff and drivers
- Awareness‑raising days on transport routes and at hubs
- Distribution of guidance and resources
- Partnership working with businesses operating in and around transport networks
This activity helps ensure safeguarding messages reach the people most likely to notice concerns in everyday travel settings.
A partnership approach
Operation Henderson is a partnership activity between Social Care, Police, British Transport Police, The Children’s Society, Youth Service, Youth Justice, Rail, Bus & Taxi operators and district councils.
The aim is to raise awareness and strengthen partnership links with transport networks.
This includes:
- Train and station staff
- Bus drivers and transport operators
- Taxi and private hire drivers
- Businesses operating in and around stations
- Members of the public
Everyone’s role is to notice concerns and share information so safeguarding partners can respond effectively.
By working together through Operation Henderson and CE Awareness Week, partners aim to:
- Reduce opportunities for exploitation
- Protect vulnerable young people earlier
- Create safer journeys and environments
- Support staff and communities to act with confidence
Key Resources:
CE Awareness Week 2026: Officer Impact Log – Fill in form
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Survey for taxi drivers/operators – National Standard for Taxi/PHV Training - Safeguarding Awareness – Fill in form
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