A PLEDGE to stamp out violence and abuse against vulnerable young people has been launched.

A new multi agency ‘know and see’ strategy is spearheading a no tolerance approach to anyone intent on sexually exploiting children.

Halton Council has teamed up with various agencies and Cheshire Police to protect boys and girls from being groomed, bullied or assaulted.

Specialists across Cheshire are striving to make everyone aware of the vital signs which may indicate children are at risk.

Parents, teachers, youth and care workers, councillors, taxi drivers, hotel receptionists and residential care staff have been alerted to watch out for vital signs.

Child sexual exploitation can be hard to detect and abusers are very clever in their manipulation.

Richard Strachan, chairman of Halton Safeguarding Children Board

said: “We have all been shocked at horrific stories in other parts of the country.

“Whilst it would be naive to think ‘it couldn’t happen here’ we will be doing everything in our power to ensure that it does not.

“Protection of our children is paramount.”

Potential ‘hot spots’ where offenders are likely to prey on children are being identified as professionals adopt new tactics.

Between April 2012 and March 2013, there were 158 young people in Cheshire identified as being at risk of being sexually exploited.

Some young people do not realise that they are being abused.

Kathy Boardman, a child sexual exploitation service co-ordinator with Catch22, which provides educational activities and a range of other activities for young people in Halton, said: “This is a very hidden issue.

“It is about power versus vulnerability.

“Young people often don’t identify themselves as being a victim. They think this is normal life because they have never had a positive relationship.

“We want them to have the confidence to talk to someone and know that it will be dealt with.”

Vital signs to watch out for if you are worried about your child, she said, include a significant change in behaviour.

Children may suddenly receive gifts, such as a mobile phone, clothes, an I-pad, cash or cigarettes.

Their performance at school might deteriorate.

Victims often withdraw from family, home and activities they enjoy as perpetrators groom and isolate them.

For advice on how to spot and report the signs of child sexual exploitation, visit knowandsee.co.uk