Protection of Sexually Exploited Children
Under the Protection of Sexually Exploited Children Act (PSECA), children involved in prostitution are recognized as victims of sexual abuse and in need of protection. Programs and services exist not only to support youth in ending their involvement in prostitution, but also to assist those who are considered at risk to become involved. Such intervention includes:
- education
- risk assessment
- appropriate service provision whether in the community or in a confined setting.
PSECA legislation allows for youth who are considered at immediate risk to engage in prostitution to be apprehended by police or a delegated Enhancement Act caseworker and taken to a protective safe house. Youth at risk may be confined from five to 47 days and then connected to community support services and placement services, if unable to return to the parental home.
Edmonton & Area Child and Family Services has two Human Services Workers placed in the Crisis Unit to implement PSECA legislation. If you are aware of, or suspect a child is engaged in or at risk of becoming engaged in prostitution, please contact a PSECA worker at the Crisis Unit.
A child or parent who wishes to access voluntary PSECA support services to assist a child in exiting prostitution may call the PSECA office directly at (780) 422-4820.
Crisis Unit
Phone: (780) 422-2001
9939 - 107 Street
Edmonton, AB T5J 0B3
TDD / TTY: (780) 427-1561
After Hours Number: (780) 427-3390
After Hours Number Toll Free Number: 1-800-638-0715
Child Abuse Hotline Toll Free Number: 1-800-387-5437
Bullying Help Line: 1-888-456-2323
Child Abuse Hotline:
1-800-387-5347
