What is grooming?

Grooming is when someone builds a relationship, trust and emotional connection with an individual so they can manipulate, exploit and abuse them.

Grooming can take place over a short or long period of time – from weeks to years. Groomers may also build a relationship with the young person’s family or friends to make them seem trustworthy or authoritative.

Children and young people can be groomed online, in person or both – by a stranger or someone they know. This could be a family member, a friend or someone who has targeted them – like a teacher, faith group leader or sports coach.

Anybody can be a groomer, no matter their age, gender or race.