Child exploitation in the hotel industry
Hotels and other forms of accommodation are sometimes used by criminals to exploit children. This includes child sexual exploitation. It also happens in other areas of hospitality, like takeaways, shops and shopping centres.
Police forces are working together with other agencies and partners to raise awareness of this crime. They are doing this by providing training to hotel staff on how to spot the signs of exploitation and abuse. This initiative is called Operation Makesafe.
What you can do to help
Some potential signs of child exploitation in hotels include:
- a young person who is anxious or scared and with someone they don't seem to know
- several people visiting the same room, often with little or no luggage
- guests arriving with large quantities of alcohol when a child or young person is with them
- unusual noise or disturbances coming from a room where you think a child or young person is staying
Hotel staff may ask you about the welfare of a child or young person you are with. These questions may feel personal or uncomfortable, but by answering them you can help hotel staff stop child exploitation. Please remember, they're asking you to make sure the person you're with is safe. They're not accusing you of doing anything wrong.
Reporting your concerns
If you notice any of the signs above, or feel something isn't right, call 999 immediately.
If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service 18000 or text us on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergencySMS service.
You can also tell a member of the hotel's staff.
It doesn't matter if you're not sure, the best thing to do is follow your instincts and report it.
Training for hotel staff
Hotel staff play an important role in stopping child exploitation. By partnering with your local police force through Operation Makesafe, your staff will receive important training. They'll learn to recognise the signs of child exploitation and how they can report concerns to the police.
It will mean they can contribute to a safer environment for all guests. It will also show your commitment to social responsibility and help protect some of the most vulnerable children and young people in our communities.
To find out more, you can contact the Hydrant programme by email. They can put you in touch with your local Operation Makesafe coordinator.
You can also access further guidance, posters and business cards for Operation Makesafe on the Hydrant programme website.