Myths and facts about exploitation

Children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can face specific risks of exploitation, whether that’s sexual, criminal, financial, or online exploitation. Many parent carers assume their child isn’t at risk because of their lifestyle, needs, or circumstances. Unfortunately, exploiters adapt their methods to target vulnerability. By challenging these myths, families can spot risks earlier and keep children safer.

General exploitation

Myth 1: “My child rarely leaves the house, so exploitation can’t happen.”

Fact: Exploitation doesn’t always happen in the community. Online platforms, games, and messaging apps are now the most common grooming spaces. Children who stay at home a lot may actually spend more time online, increasing their exposure.

Myth 2: “Because my child only mixes with family and school, they’re protected.”

Fact: Exploiters are often people children already know classmates, peers, extended family, or trusted adults. Exploitation doesn’t always involve strangers.

Sexual exploitation

Myth 3: “Sexual exploitation only happens to teenage girls.”

Fact: Boys and young men with SEND are also at risk but often overlooked. Exploiters may use peer pressure, threats, or offers of friendship/romance. Any child, regardless of gender, age, or disability, can be sexually exploited.

Myth 4: “If my child doesn’t understand sex and relationships, they’re safe.”

Fact: A lack of understanding can increase risk. Children with SEND may struggle to recognise grooming tactics, consent, or abusive behaviour. Exploiters often take advantage of this.

Myth 5: “Sexual exploitation is violent and obvious, I’d notice straight away.”

Fact: It often starts with kindness compliments, gifts, or making the child feel 'special'. The harm only becomes clear once trust is built.

Criminal exploitation (including 'county lines')

Myth 6: “My child wouldn’t be useful to criminals they don’t go out alone.”

Fact: Exploiters often recruit SEND children for county lines drug running, shoplifting, or carrying items, because they may be seen as more easily persuaded, more compliant, or less likely to be suspected by police.

Myth 7: “County lines only affects big cities.”

Fact: Shropshire’s rural towns and transport links make it a hotspot for county lines. Children are often moved between rural and urban areas to avoid detection.

Myth 8: “Criminal exploitation is easy to spot.”
Fact: It can be subtle: your child may suddenly want more independence, go missing for short periods, carry unexplained items, or talk about new 'friends' giving them money or lifts.

Financial exploitation

Myth 9: “Because my child doesn’t earn money, they can’t be financially exploited.”

Fact: Exploiters may use a child’s bank account, benefits, or personal details for fraud, or pressure them into handing over money or possessions given by family. Children with SEND may not realise that this is exploitation.

Myth 10: “Financial exploitation only happens to adults.”

Fact: Young people are often targeted to act as 'money mules', with criminals transferring money through their accounts. A child’s name, account, or even gaming login details can all be exploited.

Online exploitation

Myth 11: “If my child is in their bedroom on a device, they’re safe.”
Fact: Exploiters use online spaces to groom, blackmail, or manipulate. They may encourage children to share images, send money, or meet up in person. Being at home doesn't guarantee safety.

Myth 12: “My child wouldn’t talk to strangers online.”
Fact: Exploiters often pretend to be peers, celebrities, or gamers. They may build relationships over weeks or months, making the child feel they’re talking to a friend.