Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse, Culture, Language and Safgaurding
Child sexual abuse and exploitation are often discussed in ways that overlook the role of culture, language, identity and community. Yet these factors can profoundly shape how abuse is understood, experienced, disclosed and responded to.
This South Asian Heritage Month webinar brings together independent pieces of research exploring child sexual abuse and exploitation within South Asian communities. Drawing on research, practice experience and community insight, the session will explore themes including culture, language, safeguarding, barriers to disclosure, professional responses, and the importance of culturally informed and trauma-informed approaches.
The webinar will provide an opportunity to reflect on what we have learned, where gaps remain, and what this means for safeguarding policy and practice moving forward. It is intended to encourage thoughtful discussion rather than simple answers, recognising both the diversity of South Asian communities and the complexity of the issues being explored.
The session will be of interest to safeguarding professionals, researchers, policy makers, practitioners, community organisations, educators and anyone interested in improving responses to child sexual abuse and exploitation through greater cultural understanding and engagement.
Through shared learning and honest conversation, the event aims to contribute to a more informed, inclusive and effective safeguarding response for children, families and communities.
