The National Police Chief’s Council and The Children’s Society have launched a campaign to raise awareness of Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation during COVID-19.

The campaign is designed for key workers visiting premises during the crisis and also to raise public awareness of the signs to look out for and how to report any concerns.

The campaign encourages people to LOOK for key signs including:

• Sudden changes in behaviour

• Guarded behaviour of a child around particular individuals

• Children with bruises, burns, bite marks or fractures

• Children appearing withdrawn, anxious or frightened

• Hearing or seeing shouting and violence towards a child

• Children seen carrying or using drugs

• Children being late or arriving home late in different cars

• Unaccompanied children visiting a house where only adults live

It encourages people to ACT if they suspect a child is at harm:

• Stay curious and look beyond the obvious

• If something doesn’t feel right, it might not be

• Even if you’re unsure, it’s better to report your concerns

• Do not attempt to intervene yourself

• If you have a safeguarding manager / lead within your organisation, notify them immediately

• Call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency

• Call the NSPCC on 0808 800 5000