Social media-facilitated trafficking of children and young people: a summary report

Abstract

Social media platforms can be used for exploitative activities. This poses significant challenges to the safety and wellbeing of children and young people.

Despite increased focus on the use of social media among young people, its role in facilitating exploitation has been largely absent from current research. This report presents key findings from exploratory research that aimed to better understand the use of social media in exploiting children and young people, as well as stakeholders’ preparedness to respond to it.

The report draws on evidence from practitioners across England and Wales. It provides an overview of the problem and identifies specific areas where further research is needed to inform policy and practice.