POLICE officers and partners will be in Cathedral Square today (Tuesday, June 25), to raise awareness of a new campaign to protect children from exploitation.

Monday marked the launch of Get Safe, the new partnership between police, local authorities and education groups to ensure individuals and groups can better spot the signs of exploitation.

The group is holding a series of roadshows across the county, and will be in Cathedral Square in Worcester on June 25 from 10am until 6pm in Cathedral Square.

Members of the group will be on hand to give out information to the public about who they are, and how they can get involved in the fight against child exploitation, which includes forcing children to carry out crime, gang-related activity, sexual exploitation, trafficking, modern day slavery, forced marriage and female genital mutilation.

Detective Inspector Chris Watson, who is West Mercia Police's lead for the campaign, said: “A big part of the Get Safe plan is changing the perception and recognising that children are victims here.

“An example of this is where we executed a drugs warrant at the home of a well-known suspected drug dealer. We recovered a small amount of drugs but, most importantly, identified a child that was at risk of significant harm within that household. We were able to work in partnership with Children’s Services to protect the child. In my view that is where success lies: in safeguarding those most vulnerable.”

A Get Safe spokesman added: “Whilst Worcestershire is a safe place, there is no place for any child to be exploited. We invite information in relation to anyone who may be at risk and in relation to those who are committing offences who are exploiting the vulnerable."

Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, or West Mercia on 101, to report your concerns.

For more, see worcestershire.gov.uk/GetSafe