‘Trouble’: The play that is working to end child exploitation
Written and directed by young people at Kibble, a Scottish children’s support charity, the play has been used to launch a new online resource that aims to stop child exploitation.
Aptly named ‘Trouble’, the play, which features students from West End College Scotland, was captured on film and plans are underway for this to be incorporated into the online resource, otherwise known as ‘You Are Not Alone’, which was developed by I Am Me Scotland – a disability hate crime charity – in partnership with Police Scotland.
The show, which was funded by the Scottish government’s Delivering Equally Safe Programme, will be broadcast in schools across the country.
One of the young people involved in the show, who has been kept anonymous for their own protection, said: ‘It was an incredible experience to help bring the play to life. I really hope it encourages people to use the platform and put child exploitation to an end.’
According to Police Scotland, reports of online child abuse continue to increase with almost 2,000 offences recorded during 2022-23. During the same time frame, the police also reported 1,928 online child sexual abuse crimes – a 6.6% increase on the five-year mean. These harrowing statistics show the new online resource is needed more than ever.
Jim Gillespie, chief executive of Kibble, said: ‘Creative projects like this enable young people to explore and convey their emotions, whilst developing confidence and self-belief. A great initiative to be involved in and we’re thrilled to share resources, working together to support and educate others.’
In addition, Gillian Desjacques, curriculum quality leader for drama, dance and music, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, claiming it is a much-needed resource.
‘It’s been immensely rewarding to witness the dedication and creativity of our students as they address such crucial issues through the power of performance,’ Gillian said. ‘Collaborating with Kibble on this project has been a privilege, and I’m thrilled to see the positive impact it will have in raising awareness and supporting young people across Scotland.’
The resource can be accessed via the education platform iammescotlandeducation.org.uk where schools can register for a username and password.
Mhairi O’Rourke, development coordinator at I Am Me Scotland, said: ‘Speaking to young people, it became clear that it can be difficult for anyone to identify exploitation when it’s happening.
‘Having the insight and honesty of the young people we worked with, as well as their voices being heard throughout it, has made sure that this resource is engaging and relevant.’
‘We are grateful that they were forthcoming with what they know, and what they want to talk about, and this has made the resource what it is today,’ Mhairi said. ‘They should all be very proud that they will help many young people throughout Scotland, and beyond be able to recognise and report exploitation safely. It has been an absolute honour to be a small part of this huge achievement.’
Images: Paige Collins and Brynden
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