Sexual grooming: what
you need to know and look
out for
ABV Solicitors
In the UK, many parents are concerned about children being groomed or preyed upon via
social media or other platforms. However, this can create issues for those who engage
with children daily too, such as coaches or mentors. As few people are aware of what
constitutes grooming behaviour.
Here, a sexual offence solicitor provides a very short guide to grooming definitions in the
UK.
What is grooming?
Grooming is defined as when
someone builds
a
trusting
relationship with a child with the
aim of exploiting them sexually.
It is worth noting that in the UK,
grooming is not an issue that is
only aimed at children.
People who have mental health
issues or learning disabilities
may also be at a higher risk of
grooming. So, if you engage in
activities with children, such as
weekend football clubs, you will
need to be aware of what could be seen as grooming behaviour. If you have any doubts,
contact a sexual offence solicitor for advice and guidance.
Types of grooming
Any sexual offence solicitor will inform you that there are
different types of grooming. Some of which you may be
doing without any malicious intent.
The groomer may take the role of an authority figure, a
mentor, a teacher or a dominant, persistent person in the
child or vulnerable person's life. If you are a mentor or
teacher and are unsure about boundaries with children,
or have been accused of crossing them, contact a sexual
offence solicitor for help.
Alternatively, grooming can take place online. There are
many social media and gaming platforms that potential
groomers are engaged with. So, once again, if you receive
an accusation of grooming or sexual abuse with a minor
via these sites, contact a sexual offence solicitor for
guidance and legal advice.
If you overhear someone talking about pretending to
be younger online to talk to children, this is a red flag
that needs to be called out. As they may be engaging