Island makes 'breakthrough' in tackling child exploitation

New Vulnerable Adolescent Strategy launched

The Isle of Man has made a ‘breakthrough’ in how it tackles child exploitation.

That’s the view of the Safeguarding Board which has launched a new Vulnerable Adolescent Strategy.

It’s been unveiled to professionals working with young people who are at risk of or who have been targeted by criminals.

The strategy launch follows Operation Yarrow – a police operation which worked to identify the most vulnerable children.

It found more than 40 young people, on Island, were being exploited by criminals – either sexually or by involving them in collecting, storing or transporting drugs.

Professionals, from several agencies, are now being encouraged to share information – and work more closely together – with a pilot scheme trialling a ‘Daily Exploitation Meeting’.

Lesley Walker is the chair of the Safeguarding Board and says collectively perpetrators can be stopped:

Superintendent Steve Maddocks has told Manx Radio sharing information is key:

Around 10 children on the Isle of Man have been identified as being medium to high risk of being exploited through criminal or sexual activity.

Julie Gibney is the assistant director of the children and families service on the Island – she says often groomed children often don’t realise they’re being exploited.

She told Manx Radio the new strategy is needed because there hasn’t, until now, been a multi-agency approach to tackle the problem:

Anyone concerned about child exploitation should call Police Headquarters or in an emergency 999.

You can find more information about the Safeguarding Board HERE.