This research is based on in-depth interviews with specialist professionals who work closely with children and families who have experienced child exploitation.  Their views and experiences shed light on a growing awareness, but still limited understanding of financial exploitation. Key findings include:

Exploitative money laundering may be widespread but may go unnoticed by parents and carers, or professionals (teachers, social workers or others, including the police) who have a safeguarding role.

This exploitation can occur alone, or alongside other forms of exploitation including sexual exploitation and children made to participate in the movement of drugs (often known as ‘county lines’).

Many complex factors — like poverty, online influences and the perception that money laundering is less dangerous than other forms of crime may increase vulnerability for children and families.

Responses from professionals and systems (like police and banks) are inconsistent, and the harm is often underestimated.

See also this report: Tackling financial exploitation: Youth voice insights