I Am Me Scotland launch online resource to raise awareness among young people on child exploitation
A new online interactive resource for free use in schools across Scotland, raises awareness of child exploitation in has been launched.
Coinciding with National Child Exploitation Awareness Day, the resource went live on Monday, 18 March, and is aimed at young people from S1 upwards.
It was developed by Renfrewshire-based charity, I Am Me Scotland and Police Scotland, in collaboration with young people.
The resource was developed to raise awareness of child exploitation and its many forms, whilst signposting to services and support with the clear message to children “You are not alone.”
The resource includes topics such as county lines, suicide, sexual exploitation, sextortion, trafficking, gangs, debt bondage and violence and is split into three sections;
- What is Exploitation?
- What do you think? (Real life stories)
- Top tips/Safety Strategies
The resource has been developed and tested with the help of young people, specialist departments and specialist organisations it provides a comprehensive learning experience on child exploitation, terms used, grooming and how to get help.
The online lesson uses facts from real life incidents as the basis for five short case studies, viewed from the young person’s perspective and describing a form of exploitation happening in their lives.
It provides an opportunity to discuss and reflect on learning, followed by possible outcomes to each story. Each case study finishes with signposting highlighting options for reporting and links to support services, reassuring young people “You are not alone.”
Often young people will not recognise they are a victim of exploitation; this interactive lesson aims to offer a safe space to discuss and learn, whilst developing safety strategies.
T/Superintendent Leanne Blacklaw of Police Scotland’s Policing Together and Community Wellbeing Division said, “We are very grateful to have been able to work with I Am Me Scotland and so many young people to produce the child exploitation resource.
“It is our collective responsibility to safeguard and protect our children and young people from exploitation, prevention through education is a key step towards this.”
