9 March 2026
Dear Parent/Carer
We are writing to share with you an important letter from the Police containing guidance on how to help keep children safe in the community. The information provided outlines some of the signs that may indicate a child is at risk of exploitation and offers practical advice on what to look out for. As part of our broader safeguarding work in school, we also support students through our PSHE curriculum, where they learn about the dangers of criminal exploitation—both online and within social groups outside of school—and develop the skills needed to recognise when they or their friends may be at risk.
Please be reassured that we are not aware of any increased risk to our students. This information is being shared as part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding and to ensure that parents and carers feel informed and confident about how to protect young people. If you have any questions, concerns, or would like further support, please do not hesitate to contact the school’s Safeguarding Team, who will be happy to help.
West Midlands Police have partnered with The Children’s Society and British Transport Police to help raise awareness of exploitation. We are working hard with our specialist teams and community partners to disrupt and prosecute criminal gangs exploiting young people.
Do you know the signs of child exploitation?
Would you know where to report exploitation if you spotted the signs?
Exploitation can happen anywhere. It happens online and offline. Children are being targeted outside fast food outlets, at shopping centres, through online games, and social media. There are many types of child exploitation including money laundering, stealing from shops, transporting drugs via trains and bus routes.
Signs of child exploitation:
Ask yourself, is a young person:
• Travelling alone, particularly in school hours, late at night or frequently?
• Looking lost or in unfamiliar surroundings?
• Anxious, frightened, angry or displaying other behaviours that make you worried about them?
• In possession of more than one phone?
• Carrying lots of cash?
• Potentially under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
• Being instructed or controlled by another individual?
• Accompanied by individuals who are older than them?
• Seen begging in a public space?
You can find out more information from the #LookCloser campaign website here:
#LookCloser To Spot Exploitation – The Children’s Society (childrenssociety.org.uk)
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait—report it:
• Call the police on 101, or 999 in an emergency
• Text the British Transport Police on 61016
• Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
• Call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000
If you would like to talk to your school’s officer about exploitation or your concerns, please get in touch with the school or your local police team today.
Thank you,
West Midlands Police
Jason Halstead DSL
Assistant Principal
Academy Safeguarding Lead
(0121) 373 1080
