Staying Safe from Serious Violence and Exploitation in Wokingham
Serious violence includes the most harmful crimes, such as murder, knife crime, serious assaults and sexual violence. People who commit these crimes often use violence, threats or pressure to control others and to make money from drugs or other illegal activities.
Exploitation is when someone is groomed, pressured or forced to do things for another person’s benefit. This might include being made to carry drugs, being trapped in modern slavery, or experiencing sexual abuse. Exploitation can also happen online. It is not always easy to spot, and the person being harmed may not realise that what is happening to them is abuse.
These experiences can affect anyone. However, children, and adults or families with care and support needs, may be at greater risk.
The Wokingham Borough Safer Communities Partnership brings together the Council, police, health services, schools and other organisations. By working together, we aim to prevent serious violence, protect people from harm, and keep our communities safe.
Below you will find practical prevention advice and clear information about how to report concerns or get support.
Prevention: Children and Young People - What You Can Do (Stay True to You)
Talk
Create open, honest conversations with your child and the people around them. Build relationships based on trust and respect. Young people may not always want to share what is happening because they worry about being judged or getting into trouble. Try to stay curious rather than critical. Focus on helping them think about risks and consequences in a calm, supportive way, so they feel confident making safer choices.
Recognise what’s really going on
How safe a young person feels – both offline and online – can shape their behaviour and decisions. Social media, gaming, friendships and adult influence can all affect how they see the world and themselves.
Listen and understand
Show that you want to understand by really listening. Let young people talk freely about their experiences without fear of blame or judgement. Feeling heard can make a big difference.
Build confidence and choice
Help young people recognise their own strengths and their ability to stay safe. Encourage positive choices, support them to avoid conflict where possible, and recognise when they do the right thing.
More information on how to recognise and respond to risks of exploitation or serious violence is available from Stay True To You: https://staytruetoyou.co.uk/
Prevention: Adults Over 18 - What You Can Do
Talk openly and honestly
Build relationships based on trust and respect. People may not always share what is happening to them because they fear being judged, blamed or facing consequences. Creating safe, open conversations can help people feel able to speak up when something isn’t right.
Talk about staying safe
Encourage people to tell a trusted person if they ever feel scared, pressured or unsafe. This is especially important for older people and adults with disabilities, who may be at greater risk of scams, abuse or undue influence. Reassure them that it is always okay to ask for help.
Keep everyday routines safer
Small, simple steps can reduce risk. This includes being cautious about home security and checking who someone is before letting them into your home.
Be careful with personal information
Avoid sharing personal or financial details unless you are confident it is safe to do so – whether in person, over the phone, or online. This can help protect against fraud and exploitation.
Stay alert when out and about
Being aware of your surroundings and keeping personal belongings secure can help you feel and stay safer in public spaces.
Look out for one another
Strong communities help people stay safe. Check in on neighbours, friends or family members who may be older, isolated or have additional support needs. If you notice signs of harm or exploitation – such as unexplained injuries, changes in behaviour, or someone appearing fearful or withdrawn – do not ignore it. If it feels safe to do so, talk to them or seek advice on how to help.
Get help early
If you are worried about your own safety, or about someone else, reach out for support as soon as possible. This might include speaking to a GP, a support organisation, or contacting services to report concerns. Early help can prevent situations from getting worse.
Remember: you will not get into trouble for speaking up. Support services are there to help and protect people, not to judge them. Even if you are unsure whether something is “serious”, it is always okay to ask for advice. Getting help early can make a real difference.
Reporting a Crime, Sharing Concerns or Getting Help
By staying informed, taking simple precautions and looking out for one another, we can help keep Wokingham Borough a safe place to live.
Everyone has the right to live free from violence and exploitation. If something doesn’t feel right, support is available. You do not have to deal with concerns on your own.
Speaking up can help protect you or someone else from harm. Even small worries are worth sharing, and you will be listened to with care and respect.