Safeguarding event in Leyland to raise awareness of child sexual and criminal exploitation
An event to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation is being held in Leyland this month.
No Whispers Community Interest Company and Progress Housing Group have joined forces to host an event as part of the Right Here, Right Now contextual safeguarding project, supported by the National Lottery Community Fund.
The event is at St Mary’s Community Centre, in Leyland, on Thursday, June 26, from 5.30pm until 7.30pm. It is open to everyone aged over 18 and includes a hot pot supper.
The Police Cyber Crime Unit and the Cyber Fraud Team will talk about cyber crime and there will be information on what cuckooing is, how it happens and what to do.
Danny from Lads Like Us will tell his story of childhood abuse and neglect and how professionals and community let him down.
Karen Livesey, founder and Director of No Whispers CIC, said: “This is the second community awareness event we have held this year due to the success of our first one. It had such a huge impact that we wanted to hold another and invite more organisations to share vital safeguarding information. Stalls include Victim Support, Trust House Lancashire, Preston Domestic Violence Services, and Progress Housing Group.
“We are grateful to the Police Cyber Crime Unit and the Cyber Fraud Team for taking the time to help raise awareness of cyber crime and how we can protect against fraud, abuse and exploitation.
“We also appreciate Danny from Lads Like Us joining us again to share his childhood experiences of abuse, drug dealing and gangs. His story is very impactful and thought provoking.”
Progress Housing Group, which also provides supported living for people with a learning disability, autistic people and those with a mental health condition, is working with No Whispers CIC to deliver training to its colleagues to help identify and address child sexual and criminal exploitation.
Annette Stevens, Director of Housing Operations for Progress Housing Group’s supported living arm RWP, said:
"By understanding the signs and vulnerabilities associated with exploitation, we can intervene early and provide necessary support. It is crucial that we are effective in supporting and safeguarding our tenants and communities, ensuring they feel safe and protected from harm.”
The Right Here, Right Now event is open to anyone aged over 18.
People can turn up on the night or book via [email protected].
More information about No Whispers can be found on its website: CSE & CCE Awareness Training - No Whispers