Children are at risk of being sexually exploited are slipping through the net due to the stereotyping of victims by frontline staff, a charity has warned.

A new report from Barnardo's called for a better understanding of the diversity of child sexual exploitation (CSE) victims in order to protect children from this kind of abuse.

The report said professionals should receive training to help identify children who have experienced or at risk of CSE.

Barnardo's chief executive, Javed Khan said: ‘This horrific form of child abuse can affect any child or young person. 

‘One in five children we help in our own services are male victims of this crime.

‘Assumptions must not be made when trying to identify sexual exploitation as each victim has their own vulnerabilities. 

‘Recognising the diversity of victims will help ensure they are identified and get the right support.'