Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)
Young Person’s Guidance. It is never your fault.
A guide from the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), written especially for young people.
Child Criminal Exploitation happens when adults or older young people trick, pressure or manipulate children and young people into committing crimes for someone else’s benefit. It is a form of child abuse, it can happen to anyone, in person or online, and it is never the young person’s fault.
The SBNI has produced guidance for professionals such as teachers, social workers, youth workers and the police. This young person’s version is based on that guidance and is written in clear, accessible language for pupils.
What the guide covers
- what Child Criminal Exploitation is;
- why some young people may be targeted by exploiters;
- how to recognise the warning signs in yourself or someone else;
- what to do if you’re worried; and
- where to get help and what happens if you tell someone.
It also includes common myths and real-life style examples to help young people understand how exploitation can start.
If someone is in danger: contact the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). A young person can also speak to any trusted adult, including a teacher or classroom assistant.
Download the Guidance
View online or save a copy to share with pupils