Case Studies

Jasmine's story

15 year-old Jasmine was regularly being picked up from home in cars by adult males in the early hours of the morning. Mum was worried and said that she had received threats for refusing to let her daughter out of the house.

Caroline, a project worker with Safe & Sound Derby, made contact with Jasmine, and met up with her regularly. Jasmine was self-harming and talked about feeling lonely.

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Caroline helped Jasmine to take part in art workshops and a photography project at Safe & Sound Derby, whilst working with her to increase her awareness of child sexual exploitation, healthy relationships and staying safe.

As Jasmine started to move away from the exploitative relationships she was in, she asked for support around her education. Caroline helped her apply for a college course, which Jasmine has now started.

Jasmine is no longer being sexually exploited; she is feeling happy and positive about the future. She says, "If you have any worries and want someone to talk to they [Safe & Sound Derby] are always there to give good support and advice."


Harry's story

13 year-old Harry ran away from home a lot. He usually went to the park, and this is where he met Jeff. Jeff invited Harry to his flat to get out of the cold, gave him beer and something to eat, and let him watch what he wanted on TV.

Jeff also gave Harry new clothes and credit for his mobile phone. He told Harry to keep their friendship a secret. Soon, Jeff began introducing Harry to some of his friends. This made Harry feel important and he felt like he belonged with Jeff, like a family.

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Jeff began to be violent and abusive towards him, which Harry didn't understand. What had he done? Harry thought that if he did what Jeff said then things would go back to the way they were.

Things didn't improve. Jeff made Harry sleep with him, and sometimes with his friends, which left Harry very confused. Harry didn't want to, but he felt he would lose his new 'friends' and 'family' if he didn't do as Jeff said.


*Names have been changed to protect identities