Basis young people’s team helps young people who are experiencing or have experienced sexual abuse, whether it happened a while ago or is happening to you now. Basis predominantly supports young people being subjected to a form of sexual abuse where they are bribed or coerced into some form of sexual activity, sometimes without even realising it; this is called child sexual exploitation.  Sexual abuse can happen to young people from any walk of life, we can offer support to young people up to the age of 18 (up to 24 depending on need).

People who commit these crimes against young people can be the same age or older and from any kind of background. The abuse is often a way for them to earn money, power or status. It often starts with someone pretending to be a friend or in a relationship (either online or in person), which gradually develops into controlling behaviour, having power over the person and abusing them without the young person realising it.

It might feel like this abuse doesn’t happen to other people but it does, we can give you a confidential space to speak about how you’re feeling. Whether you are in a relationship with this person or not, it’s important to know that grooming or sexual exploitation can happen to anyone. It may be really difficult to recognise if this is happening to you or your friends, or it might be too scary to step away from, especially if you are being threatened.

If you think this is happening to you or someone else you know, there are a few important things to remember:

• It’s not your fault
• There is help out there, things can get better and it’s never too late to get help and/ or create change
• You can get support from organisations like Basis Young People to help you through this.
• You will not be judged by Basis – if you feel judged or that your worker isn’t supporting you well, you can make a complaint.

We help young people of all backgrounds in Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield

If you think you are at risk or are struggling:

• if there is immediate danger, please call the police on 999 and press 55 if you are unable to speak, the police will still be able to send help
• Ask a trusted and safe adult for help, at school or at home
• Call Basis on 0113 0243 0036 (available 9.30am-4.30pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday to speak to a young person’s worker or leave a message on this website.
• Call anonymous helplines Say Something (116 000) or Childline (0800 1111)