A hard-hitting new film tackling the exploitation of young people through County Lines has premiered today at Northern Stage, marking a significant step in the fight against serious youth violence.
County Lines refers to the practice of criminal gangs exploiting vulnerable young people to transport and sell illegal drugs across different areas, often using coercion, threats and violence.
Featuring local people, accents, and even a local school, the film is designed to raise awareness and empower young people to make safe and informed choices.
The latest resource from the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit is part of its ongoing work to address the root causes of serious violence and improve the lives of young and vulnerable people.
Produced by Meerkat Films, in collaboration with Northern Stage, the gripping and realistic portrayal highlights how young people can be drawn into dangerous criminal networks, reflecting the devastating realities of County Lines.
The film will now be shared widely, helping secondary school students, parents and professionals working with young people to recognise the warning signs and prevent exploitation.
Building on the success of previous resources which have been used up and down the country, including educational films on Joint Enterprise, this latest release aims to inform, engage, and help protect young people from harm.
Emphasising the importance of awareness-raising resources alongside the wider work taking place to prevent people becoming caught up in violent crime, Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “County Lines ruins lives, drawing young people into danger, violence and crime, which is why I urge everyone to use this film. Show it, talk about it, and integrate it into your work.
“Every young person and adult needs to understand what County Lines is, the dangers, the risks, how people are recruited, and the life-altering consequences that follow. This film is a powerful tool to help achieve that.”
“Whenever we put resources like this in front of young people, we are making a real difference and potentially saving lives. Together we are creating safer streets, and stronger communities for everyone.”
Northern Stage Deputy Executive Director, Amy Fawdington said: “I am so proud of the outstanding work by our team at Northern Stage and partners at Meerkat films to create this very moving short film. It perfectly demonstrates the power of arts and creativity to reach young people and communicate important issues in an accessible and impactful way. Empowering young people and giving them the tools to make informed choice is central to the work of Northern Stage, and this project will, I’m sure, make a real difference to our community.”
Watch the County Lines awareness film here.
For more about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk.
