In simple terms, child trafficking is a serious crime that involves the movement of children for the purpose of exploitation. In the UK, child trafficking is defined as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of a child for the purpose of exploitation. Trafficking is where children and young people tricked, forced or persuaded to leave their homes and are moved or transported and then exploited, forced to work or sold. Children are trafficked for: sexual exploitation. benefit fraud.
Children who are trafficked may be forced to work in conditions of slavery or servitude, or may be sexually exploited. They may also be forced to commit criminal activities, such as theft or drug trafficking. Child trafficking is often accompanied by physical and emotional abuse, and can have long-lasting and devastating effects on the child's mental and physical health.
The UK has legislation in place to combat child trafficking, including the Modern Slavery Act 2015, which includes provisions to protect and support victims of trafficking, as well as to prosecute traffickers. The National Referral Mechanism (NRM) is also in place to identify and support potential victims of trafficking and ensure they receive appropriate support and protection.
If you suspect that a child is being trafficked or exploited, you should report your concerns to the authorities immediately. In the UK, you can contact the police, the NSPCC helpline, or the Modern Slavery Helpline for advice and support.