"All young people are at risk of criminal exploitation and county lines trafficking"
As part of our #LookCloser investigation we find out how to spot the signs of exploitation.
As part of a #LookCloser investigation this week we're exploring how to spot the signs that a young person is being exploited by drugs gangs.
We revealed that more than 240 children under the age of 18 have been lured into trafficking in the East of England since 2017.
A further 1240 children getting involved with gang activity.
Sarah Simpkin is the Safe Practice Manager at The Children's Society East.
She says: "Any young person is at risk of criminal exploitation and county lines. There are certain risk factors that make some young people more vulnerable however like family breakdown, poverty, special educational needs or being in care."
We also discovered that children as young as 7 and 8 years of age are being used as drug mules to traffic drugs across the country.
Ms Simpkin warns of some of the behaviours that if displayed, could be a sign of involvement in gangs or drug trafficking: "Some of the signs to look out for are: children who go missing often, or go out often at night and have unexplained absences from school.
"They are often secretive about who talk to, including online. In fact, online exploitation is frequently a feature of county lines exploitation."
The Children's Society works across the country to identify, support and rehabilitate youths who are victims of criminal exploitation. Through their Children at Risk of Exploitation (C.A.R.E.) program, they help young people at risk of exploitation by offering one-on-one therapy sessions, group engagement for those who may be close to getting involved in county lines or criminal activity.
"Young people who are vulnerable are offered money, phones or jewellery all used as part of grooming process", she says before adding that intangible aspects of joining gangs like a sense of belonging and brotherhood are also offered to lure them in.
"They may also show destructive or aggressive behaviour due to the trauma they face or come back home with injuries", Ms Simpkin adds.
Kelly Jones is from St. Giles Eastern, another charity that engage with youths at risk of exploitation.
She says early intervention is vital: "It's important to have those frank and open discussions are much as possible. Even if you can't have those conversations with that child yourself.
"There may be somebody else, a teacher or sports-teacher that they particularly have a good relationship with that they could talk to. They might be the one that's able to say, I've noticed a change, I'm very worried. Can we all come together to keep this person safe".
What are the signs of county lines exploitation?
What are the signs that children are being exploited?
There are a number of signs which may help reveal whether a child is being exploited by County Lines drugs gangs. It is up to the public and campaigns like #LookCloser to identify these signs and help protect children at risk.
Children looking anxious or lost
Children travelling alone frequently, either at night or during school hours, is one sign to look out for. Children that are being exploited may appear lost or unfamiliar with their surroundings. Appearing anxious, frightened and angry is also an indicator.
Carrying two phones
Being in possession of more than one phone is an indicator that children may be contacting the individuals or groups that are exploiting them.
Carrying lots of cash
Carrying large sums of money is another sign to look out for when worried that a child is being exploited.
Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Children involved with County Lines drugs gangs could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Being controlled by others
Being instructed or controlled by another individual, or being accompanied by people that are older than them, is another sign that a child may be being exploited.
Begging for money
Children that are begging in a public space is another indicator.
Where to spot children being exploited by County Lines gangs
It's important to know where children that are being exploited might be found. Buses, trains, trams and other forms of public transport are used to move children. Food outlets or roadside services may be used for children to stock up on amenities. Hotels, salons and car washes may be places where exploitation happens 'behind closed doors'.
Will there be exploited children near me?
There's a chance you might come across a child being exploited when at your place of work. They may be found in banks when moving money between accounts.
Taxis and private hire vehicles may be used by children when in contact with those who are exploiting them; it's important for taxi drivers to not ignore concerning phone conversations.
Takeaway and delivery drivers who visit residential areas and travel through public spaces may have the opportunity to identify a household in which children are being exploited. Retail workers may come into contact with children that are stealing items or begging for money, which are also signifiers.
Hotels, caravan parks and rented accommodation are used to abuse and exploit children. Workers should keep an eye out for young people checking in with adults that do not appear to be their parents.