Final Learning Report (2019-22): Executive Summary

This is the executive summary of core learning from three years of delivering the Tackling Child Exploitation (TCE) Support Programme. The Department for Education funded the TCE Programme from 2019 to 2022 to work with local areas1 in England on tackling the complex challenge of child exploitation and extra-familial harm and to disseminate findings both locally and nationally. Delivered by a consortium led by Research in Practice, with The Children’s Society and the University of Bedfordshire, the Programme was commissioned to explore the systems-level challenges faced by strategic leaders and to identify levers for improvement.

The Programme has sought to influence the system in two key ways:

• By working with leaders to deliver Bespoke Support Projects (BSPs) in one or more local areas on the theme identified as relevant by safeguarding partners.
• By amplifying learning via the TCE microsite, and through a series of open access learning events.

The Programme identified four key elements that support an effective strategic response to child exploitation and extra-familial harm:

• Developing a shared vision
• Promoting connection and communication between partners (including non-traditional partners)
• Enabling courageous leadership
• Encouraging professional curiosity