County Lines

County Lines

County Lines: what parents need to know

County line is a form of criminal exploitation where organised groups groom children and vulnerable young people into moving storing and selling drugs often using a dedicated mobile phone “line” to control them.

This usually starts with kindness, gifts, or attention before shifting into pressure, threats, or fear. Young people make be asked to travel to other towns, stay in unsafe locations, or keep secrets about new friends or money.

Any child can be targeted, regardless of background. Parents should look out for sudden changes in behaviour, unexplained cash or gifts, going missing, secrecy around phones or travelling to unfamiliar places.

If your worried reach put early to safeguarding professionals, children caught up in county lines are victims who need protection not punishment.

County Lines- Spot the Signs:

Frequently returning home late, staying out all night or going missing for a few days or weeks at a time.

Travelling alone, particularly in school hours or late night

Looking lost or in unfamiliar surroundings

Potentially under the influence of drugs and alcohol

Taking regular Phone calls and texts

Missing school or college with no explanation

Significant decline in school results and performance

In possession of large amounts cash or new belongings such as designer clothes and trainers

Anxious, frightened, or angry

In possession of more than one phone

Often accompanied by individuals who are older than them or groups

Carrying weapons

Suspicion of physical assault and unexplained injuries

Self-harm or significant changes to emotional wellbeing

There is always help available, young people can speak to trusted adult or a Teacher, Crimestoppers.

You can speak to your local police by dialling 101 or in an emergency 999.

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Message Sent By
Qasim Shah
(Metropolitan Police, PCSO, whitewebbs)