Introduction
Important note:
The focus of Unit 1 is all children and young people up to the age of 18. For brevity, the words ‘children’ or ‘pupils’ are used throughout the unit, however, whilst the age of sexual consent is 16, young people aged 16 and 17 can also be victims of sexual exploitation.
A child is anyone under the age of 18, even if they are living independently or married.
Adults over the age of 18 who need protection are described as ‘adults at risk’ according to the Children Act 1989 & Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006.