Cumbria Police is urging teenagers to report instances of child sexual exploitation.
The constabulary's campaign comes with the message that young people should 'say something if they see something'.
The force says it's often friends who are aware of abusive relationships, long before before parents or other adults.
Cumbria Police say there are many forms of child sexual exploitation with grooming tactics including giving attention; or offering access to alcohol or drugs.
Officers are also warning teens of the dangers of sexting.
For more information on CSE you can click here.
Anyone with concerns about CSE can call Cumbria Police on 101, or contact a national, free, 24-hour, anonymous phone and text service on 116 000.
DI Neil Cooper for Cumbria Constabulary said: “CSE is an issue everywhere in the country, and Cumbria is no exception. A lot of work happens behind the scenes in Cumbria to tackle the issue.
“Young people will often tell their friends about new relationships long before any adults in their life are made aware, which is why it’s so important that young people look out for each other.
“CSE can take many forms, for example it could be a young person having sex in return for attention, gifts, alcohol or cigarettes. Although the young person may not realise they are being exploited at the time, this can cause a lot of damage to their physical, emotional and psychological health as they come to realise that they have been a victim.
“If anyone has any concerns that a friend may be in danger or could be being groomed, I would urge them to get in touch with someone – whether that is via an anonymous helpline or a trusted adult. If you think something is wrong, it probably is.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to warn young people about the dangers of sexting. Today’s ‘selfie’ and ‘sexting’ culture contributes to the risk that young people now face – young people now have easier access to the internet, through various devices, than ever before. As a result they are becoming exposed to pornography frequently and at a young age, which may influence how they see acceptable behaviour.
“I would like to remind them that once you have sent an image, you have forever lost control of it, and it could be used to bully, harass, or even locate you. My advice is if you wouldn’t willingly show your parents the photo then don’t send it.”
Sharon Tingey from NSPCC said: “Child sexual exploitation is a hidden crime. Young people often trust their abuser and don't understand that they're being abused. They may depend on their abuser or be too scared to tell anyone what's happening. It can involve violent, humiliating and degrading sexual assaults. In some cases, young people are persuaded or forced into exchanging sexual activity for money, drugs, gifts, affection or status. Child sexual exploitation doesn't always involve physical contact and can happen online. It is vitally important that young people are educated about healthy relationships, both in school and at home, young people need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of CSE and know what to do if they have concerns for themselves or their friends. I urge any young person who has concerns around CSE to contact ChildLine on 0800 1111 where there are trained counsellors ready to take their calls. There is also the option of online chat with a counsellor by accessing the ChildLine website. The ChildLine service is free and confidential and available 24/7. It is only through raising young people’s awareness that we give them the skills and empower them to make informed safe decisions.”