Avon and Somerset Police has issued the appeal as part of a campaign to raise awareness of child criminal exploitation and child sexual exploitation. Officers said victims may be the young person seen on a bus or train, in school, at work, in the park or out in the community.

The force said child criminal exploitation happens when a child or young person is groomed and forced into criminal activity, often linked to County Lines drug networks. Child sexual exploitation can involve a child being manipulated, deceived or pressured into sexual acts online or in person.

Police said grooming often starts with something that appears small — a conversation, attention, cigarettes, alcohol or so-called free drugs — before turning into something far more serious. Children and young people may then face coercion, threats, violence, trafficking or abuse.

Residents are being urged to watch for warning signs including sudden secrecy, severe mood swings, going missing from home, staying out overnight, unusual calls or messages, expensive items they could not normally afford, missing school and unexplained injuries.

Police also said signs in public can include a young person appearing fearful, withdrawn, controlled by others, lost, hungry, exhausted or spending long periods in one place.

Adults with them may appear angry, overly controlling or unwilling to let them leave.

Officers said anyone who thinks something does not look right should trust their instincts and report it. Anyone who believes a crime is happening now or someone is in immediate danger should call 999. Other concerns can be reported via 101, online, at a police station, through Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or through Fearless for children and young people who want to give information without revealing their identity.

Police have also highlighted support available through organisations including Barnardo's, NSPCC, CEOP, Young Victims Services, The Survivor Pathway, Ivison Trust and SPACE.

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