Harmful Sexual Behaviour

At least one third of all sexual offences against children and young people in the UK are committed by other children and young people (Hackett, NSPCC 2019 – NSPCC Framework link). Harmful sexual behaviour (HSB) is a term used to describe sexual actions that are outside what is safe for a young person’s stage of development. It includes actions that can harm either the child or young person themselves, or another person.

It isn’t always easy to tell the difference between abusive and normal sexual behaviours in children. Children, particularly in younger age groups, might engage in such behaviour without knowing that it is wrong or abusive. That’s why it can be more helpful to talk about ‘harmful sexual behaviour’ rather than abuse.

The links below provide access to range of resources from several organisations that are aimed to support commissioners, practitioners and families.