If you work within the transport sector, learn to recognise the signs of exploitation. You may notice when things look a little out of the ordinary and be able to pass your concerns on. You can help make our transport network a safer space for children.
Things to spot
Have you noticed a child who is:
- withdrawn, anxious, frightened, angry, aggressive or displaying other behaviours that make you concerned about them
- unfamiliar with their surroundings or appearing unsure about where they are travelling to
- not in possession of a relevant ticket or fare to travel (fare evasion may be an indicator of exploitation)
- in communication with, or accompanied by, older peers or adults who appear to be overseeing or controlling where they are travelling to
- spending a long time in a transport hub and appearing unsure about leaving
- making frequent trips or spending long periods of time in the toilet during their journey
- appearing to actively avoid being seen by transport staff or police in the area
- travelling at unusual hours (such as during school hours, early in the morning or late at night) and/or to multiple destinations in one day or night
- paying by cash for an expensive journey
- showing signs of neglect and/or indicating they have been staying somewhere unsanitary or unsafe
- using language that you suspect relates to criminal activity
- receiving frequent calls and messages and appearing anxious to respond promptly