Harmful sexual behaviour and peer abuse

Sometimes children may be the perpetrators of abuse against other children, and sometimes the perpetrator is also a victim of harm and abuse. It is Camden's policy that victims are protected and perpetrators are helped to understand and take responsibility for abusive behaviour whilst being supported to address issues driving the behaviour.

Developing their sexuality is part of a child’s development and will generally take place within the context of consensual and age-appropriate behaviour. However, some children may display sexualised behaviour that is outside that for their age-group and which could potentially be harmful to them or other children.

The CSCP has developed a multi-agency harmful sexual behaviour protocol that sets out the framework for joint working between agencies where children exhibit problematic or harmful sexual behaviour, including when to refer victims and perpetrators to CSFH.

Last updated: 11 November 2024