Announcements

Harmful Sexual Behaviour - HSB

What is Harmful Sexual Behaviour (HSB)?

• Definition: Sexual behaviour that is developmentally unexpected, inappropriate, or harmful to others.
• Spectrum: Ranges from inappropriate touching or language to coercion, pressure, or non-consensual sharing of images (sexting).

• Consent: Occurs when someone is forced, tricked, or pressured, or when they are too young or unable to give free consent

HSB encompasses both contact and non-contact behaviours. Warning signs that require parental attention include:

• Non-contact behaviours: Creating, sending, or requesting explicit images (sexting), frequently accessing adult pornography, using sexually explicit language toward others, or exposing themselves intentionally.
• Contact behaviours: Forced or pressured touching, simulating sexual acts, and full penetrative abuse.
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How to Recognise Worrying Behaviour

To figure out if your child's actions are normal exploration or HSB, consider the following:

• The child's age and development: What is normal for a toddler (e.g., curiosity about bodies) is highly concerning in an older child or teenager.
• Power dynamics: Is there a significant age, size, or maturity gap between the children involved?
• Coercion and consent: Does the behaviour involve secrecy, threats, bribes, or a lack of clear consent?

Confronting harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) requires immediate, calm intervention. Do not ignore it. Speak with your child privately to understand the situation, set clear boundaries, explain why the actions are inappropriate, and contact specialist services. The majority of children who receive the right support do not repeat these behaviours.

What You Can Do

1. Ensure Safety: Separate the individuals involved to protect everyone from further harm and limit device access if online.
2. Talk to Your Child: Choose a quiet, private time. Stay calm, ask open-ended questions, and listen without immediate judgment to understand if your child is confused, has experienced trauma, or is copying behaviours.
3. Establish Boundaries: Explain exactly why the behaviour is harmful or illegal, emphasizing concepts like consent and privacy.
4. Do Not Minimise: Take the concerns seriously and avoid dismissing the account or the impact on others.

Where You Can Go For Help

Because HSB can encompass Child-on-Child abuse, sexting, or exposure to pornography, seeking external support is crucial:

• School Support:  Please speak to a member of the Safeguarding Team Mrs. Speller, Mr. Mackay or Mr. Tomene immediately via the school office 020 8514 4666 or email lsst@loxford.net

• Helpline: Call the Stop It Now! free and confidential helpline for immediate advice from experienced advisors.
• Guidance: Review the NSPCC Harmful Sexual Behaviour Guide to better understand sexualised behaviour in children.
• Resources: Use the Barnardo's Harmful Sexual Behaviour Guide for comprehensive steps on how to support your child.
• Specialist Services: Speak to your local children's social care services if the behaviour is putting others at risk.
• For Your Teen: If your teenager is worried about their own sexual thoughts or behaviour, point them to the anonymous Shore Space support platform.