Although the signs will vary depending on the risk, some key signs to look out for are:
- staying out late or overnight
- having a new group of friends
- being in a relationship or hanging out with an older person
- going missing from home or care
- stopping going to school or college
- being frightened of certain people, places or situations
- being secretive
- sudden changes in mood or character, including becoming withdrawn, anxious or angry
- a sudden change in their family relationships or dynamics
- having money or things they can't or won't explain, such as hotel key cards or unexplained gifts
- physical signs of abuse, like bruises or injuries
- sudden change in physical appearance including clothes and hygiene levels
- alcohol or drug misuse
- sexually transmitted infections
- travelling for unexplained reasons or not knowing how their travel was funded
- spending more time on social media and being secretive about time online
- making more calls or sending more texts, possibly on a new phone