Speaking to the police

You should involve the police when you suspect your child is being criminally exploited.

Police contact or being arrested will be scary for your child: they might be frightened of the police as well as the people exploiting them. They may also be frightened about how you will react.

It can be a daunting experience for you. However, the police’s role is to prevent child criminal exploitation, pursue the people criminally exploiting your child, and protect children and young people from further harm. To do this, they need information about who is exploiting your child, where this happens, and what this involves.

If your child is arrested

The police should call you. If your child is under 18, they should inform you as soon as possible. They cannot interview your child unless a parent or other appropriate adult is present.

You can be your child’s appropriate adult. Your child should be allowed to speak to their appropriate adult in private.

Your child should also have a legal representation. If you do not have a solicitor, ask for the ‘duty solicitor’ to be called. It can take an hour or more for them to arrive. When they do, tell the solicitor that you are concerned your child is being criminally exploited.

If you have been keeping a record of incidents and events, share this with your solicitor. They can make sure the police consider your concerns.

Understanding police processes

The police operate within a legal framework that governs how they handle your child’s case. Understanding this framework and its processes will help you to support your child.