Exploitation

Exploitation of vulnerable adults is a form of abuse and should be reported in the same way as any other form of abuse or neglect.

Exploitation is complex and often a hidden issue, with people being subject to grooming, abuse, violence in order to force or coerce them into activities they don't not want to do for someone else's gain, this can include taking part in criminal activities.

There are different forms of exploitation which can affect children and adults of any gender and any ethnicity.  

Sexual exploitation

Sexual exploitation occurs when someone is deceived, coerced or forced to take part in sexual activity. Ways in which someone could be sexually exploited include but aren't limited to: prostitution, brothels, escort agencies, pole/lap dancing, forced marriage, webcamming, phone sex lines, internet chat rooms, mail order brides, pornography and sex tourism.

More information on sexual exploitation can be found on our procedures and practice resources website (opens new window).

Mate crime and home invasion (also know as cuckooing)

Mate crime happens when someone 'makes friends' with a person and goes on to abuse or exploit that relationship. The founding intention of the relationship, from the point of view of the perpetrator, is likely to be criminal. The relationship is likely to be of some duration and, if unchecked, may lead to a pattern of repeat and worsening abuse. (Safetynetuk.org)

More information on mate crime can be found on our procedures and practice resources website (opens new window).

Modern slavery

Modern slavery encompasses slavery, servitude, forced and compulsory labour and human trafficking. Traffickers and slave drivers coerce, deceive and force individuals against their will into a life of abuse, servitude and inhumane treatment. It can take many forms including:

• human trafficking
• forced labour
• debt bondage
• forced marriage

More information on modern slavery can be found on our procedures and practice resources website (opens new window).

Grooming: it should be noted that exploitation will include some form of grooming, where perpetrators will build an emotional bond with their victim in order to gain their trust, victims are often unaware of this process. Grooming frequently takes place via social media, and the potential for abuse here is vast.