Police are calling on businesses to help in the fight against child exploitation.

Operation Makesafe, which is already running under a number of forces, aims to empower business owners and their employees to identify potential victims and act early to prevent them from coming to harm.

In Lancashire, officers are targeting hotels, takeaways, licensed premises and taxi companies.

A launch event will be taking place at Preston North End on May 24 where attendees from partner agencies, the leisure sector and the night-time economy will be able to find out more about the scheme and hear first-hand about the impact of exploitation from guest speakers who have their own lived experience.

They will also be able to take away posters and a toolkit to display and utilise on their premises to help educate their staff on Operation Makesafe.

Detective Superintendent Neil Drummond said: “We are committed to protecting our young people from exploitation, but it is not something the police can do in isolation.

“It is crucial that those running or working in industries where exploitation may take place keep in mind that their premises could be used to commit offences.

“The campaign’s key message is not to hesitate in following up on that ‘gut feeling’ in situations where they think something is wrong or suspicious, when previously they may not have been sure about doing so.”

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Pratt added: "The safeguarding of children is everyone's responsibility and I'm pleased to support this campaign bringing police, partners and business owners together to ensure everyone knows the signs of exploitation, and most importantly feels confident acting on this knowledge.

"Whilst many crime types are visible to the public on a daily basis, some are not.

"Exploitation can happen anywhere, with young people manipulated, sexually abused, forced to launder money and deal drugs.”