A NEW film made by Black Country teenagers to raise awareness of child sexual exploitation has already had more than 1,000 views online.

Anybody’s Child, starring young people alongside Old Hill-born comedian and actress Josie Lawrence, aims to help people understand the warning signs of child sexual exploitation.

The 30-minute film, made by youth group Chatback, tells the story of a young girl who is groomed by a boy she trusts and who she believes loves her. Josie plays her mum and the film has already been watched more than 1,200 times on YouTube in less than a month.

The film will also be shown to teenagers in schools as part of the See Me, Hear Me campaign.

Sandwell Council's cabinet member for children's services Councillor Simon Hackett said: “We're working very hard to raise awareness of child sex exploitation among young people and adults through our See Me, Hear Me campaign."

The film is well worth watching - it highlights this shocking crime and clearly shows everyone the warning signs to look out for.

"It’s great that Chatback have put the film on YouTube and I would ask everyone to take half an hour out to watch it. It will also be a useful film for schools to show to inform young people of the signs and dangers.”