Police praised in international child abuse report

A POLICE child abuse prevention programme has been mentioned in an international paper on child sexual exploitation in tourism.

Operation Makesafe is South Yorkshire Police’s training package for those in the travel industry, including hotels and transport firms.

Businesses are taught about CSE warning signs, spotting perpetrators and reporting suspicions to police.

The op and its staff were mentioned in ECPAT International’s Global Study on Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism.

Sheffield Hallam University students, who work alongside officers on Operation Makesafe, were also praised.

The students helped police translate the training materials into foreign languages.

Sgt Katherine Wallis said: “It is a privilege and an honour to be mentioned and I am thrilled that Operation Makesafe is getting this recognition.

“This paper is a fascinating insight into how other countries across the world are tackling this horrific crime.

“I’d urge anyone working with children or interested in the field to read the report.”

She added: “I am indebted to the support of the university and to the hard work of the students.

“They have helped us make the package more accessible to a wider range of communities.”

Ray Nolan, senior lecturer at the university’s business school, said: “Students can not only benefit but can contribute to the fight against CSE in the travel and tourism industries.

“This project has helped to raise awareness and has generated a more informed intelligence picture.”

The study can be found online at globalstudysectt.org/global-report.

To report CSE concerns call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or national helpline Say Something on 116 000.

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