Interim findings from a study of 101 LSCBs revealed that fewer than 25 per cent had specific protocols to address child exploitation and less than a third had appointed lead professionals to directly address the problem. Moreover, only 29 had sexual exploitation co-ordinators in post.
"Where there are limited resources there is almost a hierarchy of seriousness of child abuse," said Sue Jago, who led the research alongside Professor Jenny Pearce. "The danger is that as agencies face severe cuts, there will be even fewer resources to go around."
Many LSCBs are demanding training and advice on how to work better with the police and develop protocols. But 30 per cent responded by saying that sexual exploitation prevention was not a priority for them.
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