Information stalls will be set up at Willesden, Harlesden and Wembley libraries this Saturday where residents and parents can find out more about the issue.

The awareness day on March 18, supported by the council along with the Brent Local Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) and police aims to highlight the issues surrounding child sexual exploitation and encourage a zero tolerance attitude.

Schools, community leaders, residents’ organisations and members of the public are encouraged to take part.

Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of child abuse where a young person under the age of 18 is encouraged, groomed, trapped, forced or coerced into a sexual relationship or situation.

It often involves the young person being offered something in return for performing sexual acts, such as alcohol, cigarettes, gifts, money, drugs and affection.

Cllr Mili Patel, cabinet member for children and young people, said: “The sexual abuse and exploitation of children is one of the most terrible crimes conceivable. Safeguarding children is everyone’s business and everyone has a role to play in raising people’s awareness.

“This national day is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of the issue and to promote the message that if you see something, no matter how trivial it may appear, say something.”

If you have any concerns about a child being harmed or at risk of harm, contact the Brent Family Front Door on 020 8937 4300 or email family.frontdoor@brent.gcsx .gov.uk.

If you are calling outside normal office hours (9am - 5pm), call the emergency duty team on 020 8863 5250.

Anyone uncomfortable or unsure about reporting a concern can also speak to a police officer, teacher, health visitor, doctor or the NSPCC.

Those under 18 years old can call Child Line at any time on 0800 1111 to speak to a counsellor. Calls are free and confidential.

If you believe a child is in immediate danger, please call 999.