Are there signs of physical neglect? Malnutrition, lack of clothing, lack of access to medical care?
Are there signs of abuse e.g. bruising?
Does the child have expensive clothes/mobile phone/money and other possessions without a plausible explanation?
Is the child cared for or accompanied by an adult who is not the child’s parent or guardian? Do they always insist on being with the child?
Do they show physical signs that they have been working? E.g. backache, tiredness
Is there an adult loitering outside the child’s home or place of education?
Does the child have a much older boyfriend?
Does the child seem to be withdrawn and afraid to talk to those in authority?
Is there evidence to suggest the child’s travel or visa was organised by someone other than a family member?
Is the child among other unrelated children at an address? Does the child give answers similar to the others who may have been coached?
The child experiences mood swings e.g. anger, sadness, withdrawal.
The child has inappropriate sexual behaviour, knowledge or clothing.
The child goes missing during the night and weekend or may not be clear about where they are going or where they have been.
The child does not go to school.
The child must reply immediately to text messages.
The child has new friends who pick them up from school.
The child visits places far away from their home.