Children can be vulnerable to manipulation and exploitation for a wide range of factors from living in poverty to a desire to earn “street cred” amongst their peers.
Typically, gangs use mobile phone lines to facilitate drug orders and supply to users. They also use local property as a base; these often belong to a vulnerable adult and are obtained through force or coercion (known as ‘cuckooing’).
Members of staff will report this as a child protection issue to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Parents/carers should raise concerns with the relevant pastoral team/s who can take advice on what next steps to take. Alternatively, parents/carers can report concerns directly to the police or to MASH.
Members of the public should report County Lines or related concerns to the police or to MASH (020 8770 6001).
NSPCC
Protecting children from county lines | NSPCC Learning
The Children’s Society
County Lines Toolkit For Professionals | The Children’s Society (childrenssociety.org.uk)