Abuse through prostitution

At least 2,000 children and young people are abused through prostitution every year in Britain. Some are as young as 10.

For the last 3 years, Vicky has been forced into abuse through prostitution by an older man. She has been raped, beaten and locked up, and has been robbed of her childhood and her self-esteem. Now her local Barnardo's project is providing her with a safe haven where she is being protected, nurtured and given a new life.

Could you make a donation to ensure our project workers are there for children like Vicky?

Read Vicky's story.

Abuse through prostitution - the issue

Abuse through prostitution can take different forms, from children and young people receiving money, drugs or accommodation in return for sex with one or more men, to being exploited in more ‘formal’ prostitution. Often a young person gets drawn into exploitative relationships because of their vulnerability, but in all cases abuse of power is involved.

Children and young people are vulnerable to sexual exploitation as a result of difficult life experiences. Children who have experienced violence or abuse at home, runaways, homeless young people, children in the looked after system, children who have been excluded from school, young people with substance misuse problems and those whose lives are limited by poverty and debt are all at risk of being sexually exploited.

Give abused children like Vicky the chance of a new life today. Make a donation.

How Barnardo's projects help

Barnardo's projects offer a confidential safe haven where young people can go for help, advice and support. They run a counselling service so girls can talk through the trauma they have experienced. Our project workers also provide advice and help with practical matters such as finding suitable accommodation and getting access to health care, work or education.

Find out more about Barnardo's projects that help children like Vicky.