Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) + Support for Men and Boys

Sexual exploitation happens when someone abuses a position of power, trust or vulnerability for sexual purposes.

This may involve:

• Gaining money, status, or control
• Taking advantage of another person for personal or commercial gain
• Pressuring or manipulating someone into sexual activity.

On-Street Sexual Exploitation

Visible sex work that takes place in public spaces (streets, parks, alleyways).

• Victims often face homelessness, substance misuse, or mental health issues.

Off-Street Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation that takes place indoors or away from public view.

• Often organised by third parties (e.g., traffickers or gangs)
• Victims may be hidden or harder to access for support services
• Better resourced (e.g., security, transport), which can mask the exploitation.

In-House Sexual Exploitation

The victim is based in one location (e.g., brothel, house, flat) and clients come to them.

Outcall Sexual Exploitation

The victim is sent to the client’s location, such as a hotel or private address.

Online Sexual Exploitation / Digital Facilitation:

Use of websites, apps, and social media to advertise or arrange sexual services.

• Listings on adult service websites, social media DMs, dating apps, or encrypted messaging

Key Exploitation Themes Across All Types

• Control (by traffickers, gangs, pimps)
• Debt bondage (paying off "transport" or "housing" costs)
• Threats or coercion
• Isolation from support networks
• False promises (jobs, visas, relationships).

To further understand Modern Slavery, read here.

If you suspect someone might be a victim of exploitation, trafficking or modern slavery, please call Unseen on 08000 121 700.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE)

When the person affected is under 18, it is called Child Sexual Exploitation

This can include:

• Sexual Exploitation/Sex Work
• Trafficking (moving someone for exploitation even within the UK)
• Modern slavery.

To better understand Child Sexual Exploitation, see here

Exploitation of Girls by Gangs

Girls and young women involved with gangs are often at high risk of:

• Sexual exploitation
• Criminal exploitation
• Physical abuse
• Emotional manipulation.

They may be forced into criminal activities such as:

• Hiding weapons or drugs
• Committing theft, robbery or fraud.

Sexual violence can be used:

• To assert control
• As punishment or humiliation, even within the gang
• Against both female and male members
• As a tool in conflict with rival gangs.

For support for young people affected by crime, contact SAFE!