We aim to raise awareness and help people be equipped to better prevent, recognise and respond to child sexual exploitation. Through interfaith events we work to build cohesion between faith and non-faith communities by developing meaningful partnerships and friendships. We all have common concerns and a cause for action in safeguarding children and young people.

News and stories of child sexual exploitation are often falsely racialised, and we work to address how Muslims and Christians are targeted in particular. Research tells us that victims, survivors and perpetrators of abuse are found in many different contexts, but the media coverage has often ignored those who fall outside of the narratives; choosing instead to fuel a narrow stereotype. We believe failing to challenge this would be a disservice to the survivors of child sexual exploitation and risks allowing fear to divide and damage our communities.

As faith communities, we have a critical role in protecting children and young people, and we’re committed to building resilience within our organisations and our communities by working with families and services that engage with them.