Meetings the Needs of Sexually Exploited Young People: The Challenge of Conducting Policy-Relevant Research

• NCJ Number: 216542
• Journal: Child Abuse Review Volume: 15 Issue: 5 Dated: September-October 2006 Pages: 313-325
• Author(s): Sara Scott; Zoe Harper
• Date Published: September 2006
• Length: 13 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United Kingdom

Annotation

This paper presents findings from a research study which explored the extent of, and responses to, the service needs of young people at risk of sexual exploitation in London, England.

Abstract

The research study had a relatively high profile during the 2 years it was being conducted and the interviews themselves inevitably raised awareness of the issues regarding the sexual exploitation of young people. Even though recommendations of the research study were supported by the Metropolitan Police, the Association of London Government, the Greater London Authority, and the Corporation of London, the Baroness Scotland made it clear that the Government had no plans to follow the report’s recommendation to remove the provision to prosecute young people who are considered to persistently and voluntarily return to prostitution. However, indications were seen of the research’s immediate value in relation to both policy and service development. The London Child Protection Committee has produced a draft pan-London protocol for working with children who are sexually exploited and has held a consultation seminar. The Bridge House Trust has funded the development of a new specialist service in south London. It provides a service in some of the highest risk boroughs identified in the research and also provides consultancy and training to those boroughs not served by the specialist service, but identified as in need. Meeting the needs of sexually exploited young people in London was commissioned by the Bridge House Trust and the research was undertaken by researchers from Barnardo’s Policy and Research Unit. This paper outlines the findings of a 2-year study exploring the extent of, and responses to, the service needs of young people at risk of sexual exploitation in London, England. It was a case study in conducting policy-relevant research into a hidden social problem. Data were collected through interviews with key professionals across London. References