Look Closer: Would you know if your child was being groomed by a drug gang?
The Look Closer campaign aims to teach people the signs that a young person is being exploited
Last updated 27th May 2022
We're being urged to learn the signs of when a child is being exploited by drug gangs.
Our Look Closer investigation is looking at how criminals target young people as part of their "County Lines" networks to sell Class A drugs.
This activity sees children sent miles from home, carrying cash and illegal substances while gang leaders lurk in the shadows.
Nearly 750 young people were identified as being caught up in these networks in the first half of 2021.
Now, we're teaming up with The Children's Society to highlight the issue, and raise awareness that it is taking place in every corner of the UK.
What are the signs of County Lines?
Children as young as seven are targeted by these gangs, but the average age is between 14 and 17.
One mum told us she didn't know if her son was dead or alive when he got caught up in County Lines.
There are several clues you can look out for that might indicate at child is being exploited.
As well as sharing messages with members of the public, The Children's Society also train businesses in how to spot signs of exploitation. This includes people working in the night time economy, taxi drivers, delivery drivers, and shopkeepers.
They also work with community organisations who regularly come into contact with young people.
As part of the investigation, we spoke to Anthony Bayou from League One side Rotherham United's Community Sports Trust.
They've undertaken training so staff and coaches know if one of the young people they regularly interact with might need help.
County Lines: The signs to look out for
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.
What if I'm worried about a young person?
- People should report any concerns to the police on 101.
- If on a train text British Transport Police on 61016.
- Dial 999 if there is an immediate risk to a child.
- Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously online or call their helpline on 0800 555111.
We'll have more on this story on-air throughout the week, and check out the #LookCloser hashtag on social media