Manchester. In the 80s, we had no computers or mobile phones, and scarce parental supervision.For many, having free rein to explore their youthful freedom is seen as a positive.
Societal gender expectations mean boys shouldn’t feel scared to walk the streets, while girls are warned about personal safety.
Men are painted as predators but, like it or not, boys can be just as vulnerable as girls. Back then, Frank befriending me seemed fine – everyone in the area knew him – so I thought nothing of his motive other than kindness.
But Frank had started what we now call ‘textbook grooming’. Buying me cans of coke or secondhand records meant winning my trust and gratitude.