Providing support and therapy for victims and survivors of Child Sexual Exploitation

Purpose This article explores and analyses the public mental health challenges arising in the field of child sexual exploitation (CSE) utilising data gathered from frontline professionals. Design / methodology / approach The methods adopted include semi-structured, face-to-face individual interviews (n=6) and focus groups (two groups with a total of eight participants, n=8). All participants specialise in work with CSE-experienced young people. Findings Professionals report how they offer support, intervention and therapy to CSE experienced young people. Findings are outlined in relation to support, therapeutic interventions, multi-disciplinary working, ‘what works?’, and the challenges and issues faced in their professional roles. The respondents are confident in their trustbuilding and intervention skills but are concerned about a lack of sustained therapeutic support. Research implications / limitations The article reports briefly on a substantial amount of data. A further limitation is that there is a need to gather data directly from the perspective of young people. Practice implications The high quality of work undertaken and the need to further develop therapeutic work with the CSE experienced young people emerge from the findings. Social implications CSE is a high profile public health issue which attracts considerable public and political attention. The shortfall in sustained therapeutic support is highlighted. Originality/ value The data gathered reflects the contemporary views of frontline professionals in a challenging and complex field of practice. Key words: mental health, child sexual exploitation, therapy, support, professionals.