A client of David Greenwood, head of our Child Abuse team, is encouraging police leaders to improve their treatment of child sexual abuse survivors. We support her proposals.

Anna (not the victim’s real name) presented recent data to Alison Lowe, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime in West Yorkshire, highlighting serious procedural and safeguarding shortcomings in the reporting and public representation of missing young people under the age of 18. The findings indicate a need for urgent reform to ensure that the safety, dignity, and privacy of vulnerable young people are central to all safeguarding and policing practices. The data and proposed recommendations are directed to West Yorkshire Police, the Mayor’s Office, and all professionals working in child protection and missing persons cases.

Since 2021, records indicate a rise in reports concerning young victims of child sexual exploitation (CSE) in Bradford and across West Yorkshire. Analysis of case files shows patterns in which images of missing young people, when shared publicly, frequently reveal identifying features, such as school uniforms, physical development, or home and school locations. Such disclosures, according to safeguarding assessments, may compromise privacy and increase vulnerability to exploitation or targeted harm.

The data demonstrates that existing reporting protocols may inadvertently place young people at further risk. Statistical review shows that a significant proportion of images circulated on social media or through public appeals contain identifiable personal information, potentially linking victims to their homes or schools. Experts advise that current practices should be revised to reduce these risks.

The recommendations based on the findings include a comprehensive review of missing persons reporting protocols, prohibiting the publication of images that display physical development, identifiable clothing, or school logos. Photographs should instead be blurred or cropped to conceal identifying features, and public communications should use only first names and initials for under-18s. The introduction of a dedicated safeguarding officer is also recommended to approve all public releases relating to missing young people.

Further analysis highlights the importance of trauma-informed practices across agencies dealing with missing young people. Training for officers and staff on the psychological impact of trauma is advised to ensure that the wellbeing of the young person is prioritised. Additionally, educational interventions for children of convicted perpetrators are recommended to help prevent the intergenerational cycle of abuse.

The findings also underline the need for an Independent Sexual Violence Advisory service. Duty ISVAs, based in facilities in West Yorkshire , would provide support for women with histories of CSE, assisting them through investigations and legal proceedings while ensuring trauma-informed care throughout the process.

Implementation recommendations include a six-month pilot programme to test revised photo-sharing and safeguarding protocols, alongside mandatory training for all relevant agencies. Progress should be publicly evaluated after twelve months to ensure transparency and accountability.

The data presented to the Deputy Mayor demonstrates that adopting these recommendations could significantly improve safeguarding standards for missing young people in West Yorkshire. By implementing evidence-based reforms, authorities have the opportunity to establish new national benchmarks in the protection of vulnerable young people.