THE next step in a campaign to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation in the town has been launched.

Taxi drivers and hotel staff are the latest workers to be targeted about the keys signs and behaviours associated with victims.

This is part of a campaign which is being implemented by Cheshire Police, Warrington Borough Council and Warrington Safeguarding Children’s Board.

Hotels have been sent awareness packs which contain important information on what staff should look out for when young people visit a hotel.

Detective superintendent Nigel Wenham, from Cheshire Police′s strategic public protection unit, said this was an issues which officers take 'extremely seriously'.

He added: "We all have a duty to protect those who are most vulnerable within our communities and everyone involved continues to work hard to tackle the issue − to ensure the appropriate advice, support and safeguarding is in place for victims and potential victims.

"It is important to remember that there is not one type of victim or offender − Child Sexual Exploitation can happen to anyone. The impact of this type of crime is devastating and it can have long lasting and significant effects on all those involved."

Similar packs are also being distributed to taxi drivers Warrington Borough Council.

This will be accompanied by adverts on buses and taxis on key routes across Cheshire to highlight the campaign.

Cllr Jean Carter, executive board member for children and young people’s services at Warrington Borough Council, said: “Protecting children from harm is our number one priority.

"One way of doing that is by being open about child sexual exploitation, discussing the risks and equipping young people and those looking after them with the right information.

"It’s also about making sure key people, for example taxi drivers, can recognise the signs and help identify potential victims and this is what the next phase of this campaign is focusing on.” 

Anyone who has concerns that someone they know is at risk is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101or by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.