TEACHERS and youngsters will be given information on the danger and signs of child sexual exploitation (CSE).

The action, which will see officers hand out leaflets to taxi companies, licensed premises, takeaways, doctor’s surgeries and hotels across East Lancashire, is part of CSE awareness day today.

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Lancashire Police will be using the day as an opportunity to carry out educational activity including speaking to youngsters and teachers in schools to inform them of the dangers, warning signs and to increase knowledge amongst teenagers about sexual exploitation.

Officers will be handing out leaflets detailing how to spot signs that a young person is being sexually exploited.

The force has been recognised as one of the best in the country for its approach to tackling CSE and has been hailed as an example of best practice.

Det Supt Sue Cawley, said: “We are using the day to raise awareness of this issue which sees young people being forced or manipulated into sexual activity.

“Our activity throughout the day is daily business for us and will be about highlighting the work we do day in, day out.

“CSE can affect young people from all social and ethnic backgrounds. In the same way, offenders come from many different backgrounds – but they all have one thing in common. They are abusing young people and are using their status or position to exploit vulnerable victims.”

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw added: “The fact that our officers continue to get so many referrals is a sign our campaign of raising awareness is working.

“Tackling CSE remains a priority and I am keen that people understand this can affect any child of any age, sex or race.”

Concerns over the problem of girls being groomed for sex by gangs of older men were revealed following a special Lancashire Telegraph investigation in 2005.

The Lancashire Telegraph launched the Keep Them Safe campaign, which called for action to protect youngsters.

Police, social services and councils have since joined forces to run Operation Engage, a special unit set up to tackle the problem.

The force will host its first live Google Hangout which will see the public pose pre-submitted questions and raise their concerns around CSE direct to Det Supt Cawley between 10am and 10.30am today.

To find out more or to submit a question, go to www.facebook.com/lancspolice.