Know the signs of criminal exploitation
People who carry knives are often being exploited by criminal gangs. These gangs use children and young adults to commit crimes for them. This includes dealing drugs and stealing.
You can help by looking out for the signs of exploitation and reporting your concerns.
Signs of exploitation
- Missing school or going missing from home.
- Changes in behaviour such as becoming more violent or aggressive.
- Suddenly having money or expensive clothes, jewellery or electronic devices that can’t be accounted for.
- Having multiple phones.
- Getting lots of phone calls or texts.
- Drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
- Stealing.
- Hanging around with older people.
- Unexplained injuries.
- Carrying weapons.
- Becoming more withdrawn or isolated.
It can be worrying if you think a friend is being criminally exploited. With your help they can break free. There are plenty of places you can get advice to support your friend:
- Contact Childline via their website or by calling 0800 1111.
- Speak to a trusted adult such as a police officer, teacher, parent, GP, nurse or social worker.
- All schools have a safeguarding lead who will be able to help.
- If someone is in immediate danger or is carrying a knife at the current time it is important you call police straight away on 999.
- You can raise concerns anonymously via Fearless.