Knowing the signs of child criminal exploitation

Solving crime is not just about robust enforcement. When it comes to protecting vulnerable people, early intervention and impactful education is vital. That’s why, alongside the important safeguarding work Dorset Police carry out, I support valuable services to provide help for victims and communities in a bid to educate about issues such as child criminal exploitation.

One of these services is the charity Escapeline, who help children stay safe by educating them about how child exploitation and grooming happens, while also teaching them protective strategies. Escapeline work across the South West alongside police forces and other agencies, also providing education and training for professionals such as youth workers, social workers, health professionals and police.

Their CEO Lisa is here to tell us a little more about the situation in Dorset, and what all parents, families, carers, and guardians should be looking out for.

“The key with dealing with the very complex situation of county lines and child criminal exploitation is working together, taking advice, and using information from the agencies who are best placed to help you.

“In Dorset, the partnership working, and the willingness I have seen from the police and partners to ask questions and listen to the answers should be highlighted as good practice. Everyone is pulling in the right direction and that really is the key to making a difference.

“As part of our work, I take care to explain that there is never an easy answer, each county line and individual case is very different; there are a myriad of factors which change what advice we give and it’s important to recognise that complexity. But simply recognising and acknowledging there is a problem is crucial, and that’s what Dorset has recognised. It is clearly a priority for each partner in Dorset, and that is crucial.

“What we’re seeing in Dorset is not unusual. It’s mirrored across the South West and nationally, but in terms of attracting young people we’re seeing vapes used more and more. Often these vapes contain drugs as well, so there is a risk of high harm there and that’s why we need more people to be in tune with the signs of county lines recruitment and child exploitation.

“Children are also being targeted at a younger age, our youngest child we’re working with in Dorset is eight. That’s why we’re working in more primary schools in order to talk to youngsters at an early age. Part of what we’re doing now includes some role play, with a scenario in a park which gets the pupils really thinking about the meaning of certain interactions and situations before it gets normalised, which we know it can as they get older.

“That’s why catching those early signs is so important. A friendship group change, where some of the new group are a bit older is a classic sign, along with language changes, getting more aggressive, distancing from family and siblings is also key.

“Keep an eye on the types of social media platforms your children are accessing as well. We know some such as Snapchat and Telegram are also used for recruitment and drug dealing. It’s incredibly worrying, and I would urge parents not to dismiss any small behaviour changes they’re seeing. You know your children, if you sense something is off, then ring the alarm, there are people here to help you.”

Thanks to Lisa for her honest and stark words on what I know is a major concern for parents. There are things you can do to protect you and them, and talking to your children about these issues is the start. If you see any of these signs in your children, or someone you know, then reach out for help. I am clear that we need three things to robustly tackle these crimes: tough enforcement, effective intervention and we need impactful prevention. That’s why through joint working with our partners including our neighbouring OPCCs and Forces in the south west, expert knowledge from organisations like Escapeline and the right type of education, we are sending a clear message that we will not tolerate those intent on bringing harm to our communities and exploiting our vulnerable citizens.

David Sidwick

Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner

Spot the signs:

• A young person who is accompanied by individual(s) who are older than them.
• A young person being instructed or controlled by another individual.
• A young person travelling alone, particularly in school hours, late at night or frequently.
• A young person looking lost, or they are in unfamiliar surroundings.
• A young person displaying behaviours that make you worry about them, for example anxiety, anger or being frightened.
• A young person being in possession of more than one mobile phone.
• A young person carrying lots of cash or appearing to live above their means and have the latest gadget or clothes.
• A young person who is potentially under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
• A young person seen begging in a public space.

Report your concerns:

• Call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can report your intelligence online
• If you are on a train, text British Transport Police on 61016
• Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and remain completely anonymous. You can also report online
• Call the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 if you’re concerned about a child.