Home Office: Criminal exploitation of children, young people and vulnerable adults (County lines) Guidance update

 The Home Office has published an updated guidance document on Criminal exploitation of children, young people and vulnerable adults for the supply of drugs, and transportation of the associated money and weapons, specifically focusing on County lines.

The guidance is intended to explain the nature of this harm to enable practitioners to recognise its signs and respond appropriately so that victims and potential victims get the protection and support they need.

Vulnerability factors include contact with the criminal justice system, a history of neglect or abuse, social isolation, economic vulnerability, homelessness, connections to gangs, physical or learning disabilities, mental health issues, substance misuse, being in or leaving care, exclusion from mainstream education, and insecure immigration status.

It is crucial to understand that these risk factors do not cause exploitation but create an imbalance of power that perpetrators seek to exploit.

The guidance states that recognising signs of County Lines exploitation is crucial, as victims may not readily disclose their situation due to fear.

Indicators include unexplained changes in lifestyle, such as school absenteeism or declining performance, emotional distress, antisocial behaviour, the use of specific slang, unexplained wealth or acquisitions, multiple phones or sim cards, carrying weapons, drug-related paraphernalia, unusual train tickets, and attachment to a particular bag.

The guidance also talks about concerning relationships, isolation from usual peers, excessive online activity and secretive online interactions, as well as indicators of financial exploitation..

A number of real-life case studies are provided to illustrate some of the ways exploitation can take place and professionals have identified victims and to demonstrate some of the good practices in responding.

The guidance also provides more detailed information on safeguarding and disruption and includes new ways of working and other useful resources.

It also provides a reminder that responses from a trauma-informed perspective are vital in the safeguarding process and discussing the next steps with them to build their trust.

For more information: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/65322ad1e839fd001486720d/2023_FOR_PUBLICATION_-_Criminal_exploitation_of_children_young_people_and_vulnerable_adults_county_lines1.pdf