for youth
Being sexually exploited or trafficked can be a difficult thing to recognize and talk about, but you are not alone. It is understandable to have lots of questions and concerns about your situation. Please reach out to any of our resources below or report it to a trusted adult if you are in need of help or support.
You can also contact us if you need support. Call Program Facilitator, Andrea Krakan, at (604) 939-6055 or by Email akrakan@plea.bc.ca
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or risk, call 9-1-1 or contact your local police.police.
Learn about sexual exploitation HERE and take a look at our infographic.
children of the street's
confidential text number
No matter what exploitative situation you may be facing, remember that there is always help available. If you want to contact us confidentially, TEXT (604) 866-6779 ANYTIME. We'll get back to you during office hours, Monday to Friday 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM. We’ll do our best to reach back as soon as possible.
how do i know if i am being exploited?
There are often many indications that a youth might be exploited or trafficked, but there are five main warning signs that we share with youth in our workshops:
the 5 warning signs
1.
age difference
Traffickers and exploiters like to target younger victims because of their vulnerability. They will often act as a "boyfriend/girlfriend" to gain a youth's trust and to build a relationship. Not to say that all relationships with an age difference are exploitative, but typically, exploiters and traffickers are older than their victims.
2.
gifting
Excessive and unexplained gifts may be used to build a youth's trust, that may later result in an unexpected debt (ex: cellphone, clothes, pets, drugs, alcohol, etc.)
3.
lifestyle changes
Lifestyle changes can be tricky to spot because it is normal for youth to develop and go through changes. However if a youth is skipping or dropping out of school, dressing differently, drastic change in behaviour and activities, increased use of drugs and alcohol, or any other noticeable changes in combination with the other warning signs, this may be a red flag.
4.
isolation
There may be attempts made by exploiters, traffickers or recruiters to keep youth away from healthy relationships (like friends and families).
5.
gut feeling
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Go with your gut feeling and trust your instincts.
online safety
Learn how to adjust the location settings on your devices and social media.
sexting information
Are you or a friend concerned about a sexting incident or sextortion? Learn how to stay safe.
more resources for youth
If you're a youth needing help or have questions, here are some available resources for you to get more information.