What we do
BEST aims to support children and young people aged 18 years and under to identify risk and devise strategies to minimise harm, particularly in relation to exploitation. 2 key aspects of this service are ensuring that we have a collaborative approach in working with agencies/referrers in supporting young people at risk and promoting the voice of children and young people by supporting them to engage and participate in the care planning and review processes. Additionally BEST are included as an option for young people for return discussions after missing episodes.
What is a Return Discussion?
If you've gone missing or been away from where you're supposed to be, we know there might be a reason behind it — and we're here to listen, not judge.
A return discussion is a safe, private chat with someone from the BEST team. It’s your chance to talk about what happened, how you felt, and anything that might help you stay safe in future. You’re in control of what you choose to share.
👂 What Happens in a Return Discussion?
We check in with how you’re feeling and what’s been going on for you.
You can talk about why you went missing (if you want to), and what happened while you were away.
We’ll ask if there’s anything that would help you feel safer or more supported.
If you’ve been in risky situations, like around people who tried to harm or take advantage of you, we’ll help you think about how to stay safe and who you can talk to.
We listen to your views and make sure you're involved in any plans that affect you.
🤝 Why Is BEST Involved?
BEST is here to support young people who might be at risk of harm, especially from things like exploitation. We work with other professionals (like social workers or school staff), but we always make sure your voice is heard. We're on your side and want to help you find ways to stay safe and feel more in control.
We can help with
- Child sexual exploitation (CSE) is a form of child sexual abuse. When children and young people experience sexual abuse we help them recover and rebuild their lives. We also support their family through counselling and create and deliver preventive and awareness-raising programmes.
- Find out more about Child sexual exploitation (CSE)
- Search for Child sexual exploitation (CSE) services
- We support children and young people who have gone missing/run away from home. Our help includes return-home interviews, so they have a chance to talk about why they ran away, what happened when they were away and how they are feeling now they are back. This is done so things can happen that will make a recurrence less likely.
- Search for Missing services