Current estimates indicate that approximately 14,500 children were identified as at risk or involved in child criminal exploitation between 2023 and 2024
In a landmark move to protect children and vulnerable individuals from criminal exploitation, the UK government has announced the introduction of two new criminal offences as part of the upcoming Crime and Policing Bill. These measures aim to address the growing issue of child criminal exploitation (CCE) and the exploitative practice known as “cuckooing.” The legislation is set to be introduced in Parliament next week and forms a key part of the government’s broader Plan for Change.
The first new offence targets the practice of cuckooing, where criminals take over the homes of vulnerable individuals without their consent to conduct illegal activities such as drug dealing. This highly exploitative practice has long been a concern for law enforcement and community leaders, and the new legislation seeks to address it by making cuckooing a criminal offence punishable by up to five years in prison.
The second offence focuses on adults who use children to commit criminal activities. This measure is particularly significant as it directly addresses the issue of child exploitation, which has seen an alarming increase in recent years. Under the new legislation, those convicted of using children in criminal activities could face up to ten years in prison.
Current estimates indicate that approximately 14,500 children were identified as at risk or involved in child criminal exploitation between 2023 and 2024. However, these figures are likely an underestimate, as many exploited children remain undetected by authorities. Under existing legislation, only a small number of individuals have been charged for using children in criminal activities, highlighting the need for stronger legal measures.
The new legislation also includes the creation of CCE prevention orders, which can impose restrictions on individuals who pose a risk of exploiting children for criminal purposes. These orders can limit their ability to work with children, contact specific individuals, or enter certain areas. Breaching these orders could result in a maximum penalty of five years in prison.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the importance of these measures, stating, “The exploitation of children and vulnerable people for criminal gain is sickening. These new offences will help us eradicate this from our streets and ensure victims are properly protected.”
Baroness Anne Longfield, Executive Chair of the Centre for Young Lives, welcomed the changes, saying, “This change in the law is long overdue and will save lives.”
Mark Russell, Chief Executive at The Children’s Society, highlighted the need for strong enforcement and training for safeguarding professionals. He added, “This new offence is a vital step forward that we have been campaigning for over the years. It will finally shift the focus onto perpetrators, not victims.” Dame Rachel de Souza, The Children’s Commissioner, stressed the importance of a child-centric justice system, stating, “These measures will help create clarity that exploited children are victims. I hope this will enable professionals to intervene at earlier stages.”
The new offence of cuckooing will carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison. This measure aims to target individuals who take over the homes of vulnerable people for criminal purposes, ensuring they are punished for the harm caused.
The introduction of these new offences and prevention orders is part of a broader strategy to make streets safer and reduce criminal exploitation of vulnerable individuals. The government’s Plan for Change includes measures to halve knife crime in the next decade and create a safer environment for all citizens.
As the Crime and Policing Bill is set to be introduced in Parliament, the government’s commitment to protecting children and vulnerable individuals from exploitation is clear. The new measures are expected to provide much-needed support and protection for those at risk, while holding exploiters accountable for their actions. With the backing of key stakeholders and the public, these changes mark a significant step forward in the fight against child exploitation and the creation of a safer society for all.
