The Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act (PSECA) is legislation that provides protection and specialized services to children who are sexually exploited through their involvement in prostitution. The legislation recognizes that a child involved in prostitution is sexually exploited and a victim of sexual abuse, who requires services and protection.
PSECA services include prevention programs across Alberta to reduce the incidence of children and youth being involved in prostitution. PSECA programs also address awareness of child sexual exploitation and the forms that this exploitation can take, including prostitution.
The PSECA legislation allows for provision of voluntary community services that can be provided to children to end their involvement in sexual exploitation.
Voluntary Services are community based programs that are residential or non-residential in nature and are designed to assist youth with their successful exit from sexual exploitation.
Police and caseworkers may apprehend sexually exploited children under PSECA, with or without a court order, to ensure their safety and well-being when a youth is unwilling to engage in Voluntary Services and/or Voluntary Services will not meet the safety needs of the child.
An apprehended child may be placed in a protective safe house for up to 5 days.
During this period, the child is assessed for protection needs, medical needs, drug and alcohol use and other risks related to his/her involvement in prostitution.
If the assessment determines the need for continued protection, a director may apply for up to 2 additional periods of up to 21 days of confinement in a protective safe house
Consider the following when determining if a child is in need of protective services:
To learn more about what happens after child sexual exploitation is reported click here