Bedfordshire University Research in Practice Children's Society

Tackling Child Exploitation
Research and Evidence

That Difficult Age: Developing a more effective response to risks in adolescence: Evidence Scope

Literature reviews

By Elly Hanson, Dez Holmes

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This evidence scope looks at the serious and negative risks that face some adolescents in the UK today, focusing on neglect, running away, sexual exploitation, and offending. Considered together, common themes can be drawn out to inform a distinctive adolescent-centred approach to protection, prevention and the promotion of adolescent resilience.

Joining the Dots
Our collective knowledge of and understanding of child exploitation is still a developing field. Ideas and examples from across the sector and beyond may help bring a fresh new perspective or unlock a problem. The resources below are part of this rich conversation...
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Practice Principles

Download the Practice Principles document to explore what this means for professionals, and how to develop your approach to tackling child exploitation.

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The TCE Programme closed on 31st March 2023. Please note that Practice Principles, Research Summary and Further Learning Annex were updated in March 2026. Case Studies and the Child Sexual Exploitation Resource were created and added in March 2026. Please note this is a legacy site and is not being regularly updated.
The Practice Principles and supporting resources remain available on the TCE microsite, with hosting currently extended until 31st March 2028. Hosting arrangements beyond 2028 will be reviewed by the Department for Education.
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