HOTELS, guest houses and B&B staff across the Cardigan area will be made aware of the signs of sexual exploitation as Dyfed-Powys Police clamps down on those who prey on vulnerable people.

Officers and PCSOs will be visiting businesses over the next fortnight, urging owners and employees to be vigilant and encouraging them to report any concerns around adults or children potentially being exploited.

They will be asked to look out for signs such as young people booking into hotel rooms with older adults who do not appear to be family members, a lot of adults coming and going to one room, or being bought alcohol by older people.

Sexual exploitation involves any non-consensual or abusive sexual acts performed without a victim’s permission. This includes prostitution, escort work and pornography. Women, men and children can all be victims, and many will have been deceived through promises of a better life.

Hotels, guest houses and B&Bs are sometimes used as locations for sex trafficking, where victims are compelled to provide commercial sex to paying customers.

Some of the signs to look out for are people who show signs of physical abuse, restraint or confinement; emotional abuse or dependency on another; or malnourishment, poor hygiene or sleep deprivation.

They might also avoid interacting with others, especially about sharing information about their personal situation, have no control over money or identification documents, or be treated in a demeaning or aggressive manner.

Where young people are involved, they might be dressed inappropriately for their age, or appear to be with a significantly older ‘boyfriend’ or in the company of older males.

Perpetrators might pay by cash to avoid leaving a credit card trail, book under one name but check in under another, or have visitors who ask for a room number but don’t know the name of the guest.

Detective Chief Inspector Anthony Evans said: “It is vitally important that we do all we can to target sexual exploitation – particularly where vulnerable adults or children are concerned.

“Police officers are being actively trained to recognise signs of sexual exploitation and we are actively encouraging hotel, B&B and guest house staff to be aware of these signs also. Evidence shows that sexual exploitation can occur at B&Bs and hotels, so it’s important people working in this industry spot the signs of sexual exploitation and report them.

Victims are almost always too frightened or ashamed to ask for help themselves, and receptionists, managers and housekeepers are in a unique position to notice when someone or something seems suspicious or might not be quite right with young guests.”

Hotel staff who have concerns for the welfare of a guest are advised to raise concerns immediately with their manager or senior staff, and inform Dyfed-Powys Police by calling 101.

Management or staff who would like more information contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team.