At the end of August, Concept Claim Solutions and its franchise partners took on the challenge of climbing the breathtaking heights of Snowdon, all to raise essential funds for Ivison Trust. This dedicated charity works tirelessly to protect vulnerable children from the imminent dangers of sexual and criminal exploitation, offering vital support to families grappling with heartbreaking circumstances.

Founded in 1996 by a parent whose daughter was a victim of sexual exploitation, Ivison Trust serves as a beacon of hope for families throughout England and Wales.

Their mission is clear: to keep children safe from exploitation by working in partnership with parents, police, and family services to disrupt offenders and provide support for affected children and their parents.

Andy Wlamsley, Director at Concept Claim Solutions, said, "The climb up Snowdon was tough, but each step felt impactful, knowing we were raising funds for a crisis line. A colleague shared a harrowing experience when her teenage son was groomed at school and taken 70 miles away to a trap house, cut off from the world and forced into unimaginable situations out of sheer fear. Sadly, this tragedy is not an isolated incident; it’s happening to children all across the UK."

The urgency of this cause cannot be overstated. Alarming statistics reveal that in the 2023/24 period, 14,500 children were identified as at risk of criminal exploitation, including devastating "county lines" operations—a likely gross underestimate. The National Youth Agency reported that as recently as 2020, 60,000 young people were involved with gangs or had gang-affiliated siblings.

Children are often groomed in what you would consider a safe space, such as schools, violating trust and leaving lasting scars on innocent victims. It’s understandable to believe that these horrifying realities won’t touch your own family. However, the stark truth is that it is happening every day, affecting parents who love their children deeply.

Criminal gangs are sophisticated in their methods and use other children to gain the trust of the child before introducing them to people who manipulate and coerce.

Ivison Trust addresses these challenges with a comprehensive support system. They offer direct family assistance and confidential guidance. Additionally, they provide essential training for professionals in social care, police, and education, ensuring a trauma-informed and family-centred approach that fosters meaningful connections and drives positive change.

Local businesses, clubs, and organisations have a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting Ivison Trust.

By engaging in fundraising events or creating enduring partnerships, you have the power to raise crucial awareness and support for children in your community. You can play a transformative role in the lives of children and their families, making a profound and lasting impact.

Do you know or suspect that your child is being sexually or criminally exploited by someone outside the family?

Ivison Trust takes referrals directly from parents. If you are worried about child sexual or criminal exploitation happening to your son or daughter, please complete this form. Someone from our parent support team will be in touch to discuss the help and information Ivison Trust could offer.