At-risk Roma girls educated on CSE dangers

South Yorkshire’s police and crime commissioner is funding an initiative to help educate Roma families on the dangers of child sexual exploitation (CSE). The Clifton Learning Partnership in Rotherham helps Roma girls understand the risks associated with CSE and how to avoid becoming involved in a relationship that is unhealthy and could cause them harm. Rotherham has faced intense scrutiny in recent years in relation to cases of CSE and trafficking, most notably in the 2014 Jay report. “Support workers will educate young girls on the dangers of unhealthy relationships and speak to them in Roma to ensure they have a full understanding,” said Dr Alan Billings, who awarded £4,667 from his community grant scheme to the centre in Eastwood. “Sessions are held throughout the week and provide support and advice on what to do if a young girl is worried about a relationship or what to do if a friend or someone they know could be at risk of abuse.” Helen Littlewood, director of the Clifton Learning Partnership, said they had concerns that up to 40 Roma girls from the Eastwood area were at risk of becoming involved in sexual exploitation. “The Clifton Learning Partnership is involved in a multi-agency operation to engage with the local Roma community and raise the understanding and awareness of the risks of CSE,” she said “The funding from the commissioner will help us further develop one-to-one advocacy and support work with family and group sessions. “We hope this will enable these marginalised communities to speak out about their own experiences of abuse and play their full part in helping to protect children and young people”.