Do New Policies Influence Practice? A Qualitative Study of Practice and Change in Relation to the New Welsh Child Sexual Exploitation Guidance

Abstract

Abstract Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a relatively new term within policy and practice. Whilst policy responses have shifted from criminalisation to recognising CSE as child abuse, a review of the 2011 Child Sexual Exploitation Guidance commissioned by the Welsh Government found a growing, yet limited, understanding of CSE in professional contexts. In this article, we explore practitioners’ perceptions of how they work with young people experiencing, or at risk of, CSE and whether they believe the new Welsh CSE Guidance is effectively implemented in their practice. This small-scale qualitative study utilised small group interviews and semi-structured interviews to explore the perspectives of twelve participants in the initial phase of the guidance release. A thematic analysis of the data demonstrates a lack of professional awareness of the new Welsh CSE guidance, raising questions surrounding implementation efficacy. These findings highlight the complexity of implementation, illustrating a need for manageable caseloads and supportive cultures, which policymakers, senior management and front line managers need to be aware of. Clear and effective implementation strategies that consider these factors, pre- and post-release, are required to improve implementation efficacy in supporting best practice.