30 fast food outlets and off licences in Bedford support campaign to help spot signs of child sexual exploitation

A teenager was safeguarded this month after a hotel noticed the tell-tale signs
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Bedfordshire Police, along with Bedford Borough Council, visited 27 fast food outlets and off licences in Midland Road and Bromham Road to talk about an initiative to help spot the signs child sexual exploitation.

Called Operation Makesafe, it is a police initiative, which aims at identifying potential victims and the perpetrators of exploitation in public places, such as hotels, licensed premises, fast food outlets and taxi services.

The operation can also deploy police officers to intervene and safeguard children before any harm or abuse occurs.

Neglected child (for illustration purposes)Neglected child (for illustration purposes)
Neglected child (for illustration purposes)

Earlier this month, a teenager was safeguarded after a hotel in Bedford contacted police, using emergency number 999, and quoting Operation Makesafe. Staff at the hotel had seen something that fitted in with the signs of exploitation. An investigation is currently ongoing.

Police Constable Gemma Bear said: “Whilst we do all we can to work with industries such as food outlets, hotels, train stations and other businesses, and give them the insight to spot exploitation, we would also encourage the public to be aware of the signs and speak to their children, friends and family about the dangers.”

Councillor Colleen Atkins, portfolio holder for community safety at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Everyone can play a part in helping to keep our children and young people in Bedford borough safe, whether at home, in care, online or just out and about in the community.

“Doing nothing is simply not an option for anyone.”

The signs of child sexual exploitation include:

1) Changes in behaviour or any physical signs of abuse

2) New, unexplained gifts or possessions

3) Episodes of staying out late or not returning home

If you’re being exploited, or have concerns for someone else, you can call 101 or make a report here