There is no way to identify someone who will hurt children. People who pose a threat of sexual abuse to children can be skilled at making sure no one knows. There are warning signs, however:

Look out for someone who:

• pays an unusual amount of attention to a child or groups of children, and provides presents, money, or favours
• seeks out vulnerable children, for example, deaf or disabled children
  tries to spend time alone with a single child or particular group of children on a regular basis
• takes a child or small group of children to places where the group doesn’t usually meet or have activities, such as at their home
• is vague about where they have worked or when they were employed
• avoids co-working or supervision of his or her work
• encourages secretiveness about his or her activities with children
• talks or behaves inappropriately towards children.

If you do have any concerns about somebody’s behaviour, you need to pass these on to the relevant person or organisation who will investigate them appropriately. There have been a number of cases where people have taken unlawful direct action and individuals have been wrongly accused, injured and killed. Always report concerns NSPCC Helpline