Keeping Children Safe: Understanding County Lines Exploitation

County Lines refers to organised criminal groups who extend their drug‑dealing operations from major cities into smaller towns and rural areas. They use dedicated mobile phone lines to manage drug orders and sales.

These groups frequently exploit vulnerable children, coercing them into transporting drugs and money across the country. There are hundreds of active County Lines networks operating across the UK.

Children as young as seven can be targeted. Offenders take advantage of vulnerabilities such as limited family support, financial hardship, or the appeal of quick money. Once involved, children are pressured into delivering drugs and collecting payments, placing them in extremely dangerous situations with potentially devastating consequences.

Transport hubs—particularly train stations—are often used to move drugs, prompting regular enforcement activity, raids, and arrests.

Signs a child may be exploited through County Lines

It’s important to be aware of indicators that a child may be involved in County Lines activity. These may include:

If you believe a child is being exploited or is at immediate risk, contact the police straight away. Early reporting can play a crucial role in safeguarding a child and preventing further harm.