Cambs firefighters given hard hitting education about child sexual exploitation

Wisbech fire crew watched a performance about child sexual exploitation at the College of West Anglia to educate them about the subject last week.

The scheme aims to increase awareness about the issue and sees workers from the Cambridgeshire fire and rescue service attending performances of Chelsea’s Choice which is based on real life stories.

Fire service staff working in the community already undertake training about safeguarding and how to recognise potential victims of abuse, neglect and vulnerable people they may encounter or visit in the community.

The invitation to expereience Chelsea’s Choice and other seminars is aimed at helping to reinforce existing knowledge further.

Wisbech watch commander Phil Pilbeam said the production helped cement his knowledge of the subject.

“We understand it is sensitive and sometimes hard to talk about.

“It also informed students and other agencies who attended to be aware of and how to highlight trafficking, the ‘grooming’ process, healthy relationships and safe internet use.”

He added: “Although the performance was hard-hitting, the watch enjoyed the production and discussion with the small but enthusiastic cast after the show.”