Why children in children's homes may be at higher risk

Working Together 2026 identifies that children who go missing from home, care or education, looked after children, and children with histories of abuse or neglect can face greater risk of sexual or criminal exploitation. This does not mean harm is inevitable, but it does mean staff must assess vulnerability and put protection and support in place early.

Children in residential settings may have experienced trauma, loss, rejection, disrupted schooling, substance issues, unsafe peer relationships or pressure to return to familiar people and places. Some are targeted because others believe they can be manipulated, isolated or blamed for what happens to them.

Why risk may rise

• Belonging needs: children may be seeking affection, status, money, safety or acceptance.
• Trauma history: previous abuse or neglect can make grooming and control harder to recognise.
• Known local links: family, peers or exploiters may still be nearby or easily reachable.
• Repeated emotional triggers: disputes over contact, sanctions, rejection or placement stress can increase vulnerability.
• Unmet practical needs: access to phones, transport, food, substances or somewhere to stay can be used to gain control.
• Weak daytime structure: exclusion, boredom or disconnection can increase contact with unsafe people and places.

Manager focus: placement and risk strategy

Higher risk does not mean blame. It means the team should notice earlier, plan better and protect more actively.