Police work with hotel staff to keep youngsters safe and stop child exploitation

Officers from the Torquay Neighbourhood Police Team, with support from Police Cadets, recently carried out an evening of action around child exploitation.

Op Makesafe is part of a national initiative designed to empower businesses and organisations to tackle child exploitation. Police aim to increase awareness and training of early warning signs.

A plain clothed officer and cadet attended eight Torquay hotels and asked to book a room for one night. The pair asked specifically for a double bed, said they wanted to pay in cash and without providing ID. The intention was to assess the hotel staff’s understanding of what child exploitation may look like, recognising potential red flags or warning signs and also what to do next.

Sergeant Neil Powers explained: “Unfortunately only one hotel challenged the relationship between the police officer and the cadet and subsequently asked for ID, with the other seven hotels progressing the booking process. However, some hotel staff explained that they did feel a bit uncomfortable and felt that something wasn’t quite right.”

Following the recent operation police spoke to hotel staff about spotting and recognising warning signs and gave advice on what the hotel staff can do to help keep people safe - this included providing a document which can be incorporated into staff training. Police want to educate people and are not looking to embarrass staff.   

The Op Makesafe police advice doesn’t just apply to hotels, it is relevant to many other types of businesses. Staff who feel that something isn’t quite right can report their concerns to Devon & Cornwall Police by calling 101 or by visiting the Force website Home | Devon & Cornwall Police

There is more information on Op Makesafe and the warning signs to look out for here Op Makesafe | Devon & Cornwall Police

If you are interested in joining the Police Cadets or becoming a Cadet Leader please visit our website Police Cadets - Working in Partnership

Please note: we are not naming the hotels visited.