Devon and Cornwall Police and the Children’s Society are urging local businesses to help identify potential child sexual exploitation (CSE).

Business owners and managers are invited to an event tomorrow to learn how they can help. It will be held in the Council Chamber at New County Hall in Truro on Tuesday, November 7 between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

Nationally the focus of the campaign has been on hotel and taxi businesses but police in Cornwall believe that others can help too.

PC Steph Trebilcock, who is based at Newquay Police Station, said: ‘Because of the rural and coastal nature of our area vulnerable youngsters tend to use buses or trains or get picked up by older teenagers in their vehicles which may well stop off at petrol stations.

‘All these businesses need to be aware of child exploitation, what it is, how to recognise it and what to do if they have concerns.’

The event at Truro is designed to inform business managers of the CSE risks that exist and offers an opportunity for them to sign up for some training which they can cascade through their employees.

Cornwall commander, Chief Superintendent Jim Pearce, said: ‘Safeguarding and protecting the vulnerable is everyone’s responsibility. Becoming part of this campaign equips businesses and their staff to play a part in this.’

Anyone who wishes to attend the meeting should email [email protected]

More information on child sexual exploitation can be found at www.nwgnetwork.org