Launched during a national week of action to disrupt organised criminal networks, this new online awareness course will help more people recognise the warning signs of county lines activity and criminal exploitation.
Developed by the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, and informed by specialist staff from policing, education and children’s services, the free course gives youth workers, community organisations, and frontline staff, the knowledge and confidence to identify when children and vulnerable adults may be being exploited.
County Lines, which refers to the transportation of illegal drugs from one area to another, often involves the targeting and exploitation of young and vulnerable people, who can be coerced into carrying drugs, money or weapons.
The new module explains how criminal networks operate, the tactics they use to recruit and control victims, and how more people can recognise the warning signs if someone may be at risk or involved in this activity. It also provides guidance on how to report concerns and access support.
Equipping people with the tools to intervene early, and prevent violence before it escalates, the course expands the e-learning topics available within the Violence Prevention Ambassadors Programme and supports the wider work of the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, and its partners.
Since the programme’s launch, which already includes modules on knife crime, joint enterprise, youth violence and hidden harms, it has helped create a growing network of more than 300 trained ambassadors from across the Northumbria force area, raising awareness and strengthening early intervention in communities.
Northumbria Police and Crime Commissioner, Susan Dungworth said: “County Lines ruins lives, drawing young and vulnerable people into danger, violence and crime, and placing them at significant risk of harm.”
“This new course will help those working in our communities better understand what County Lines is, the dangers and risks involved, how individuals are recruited, the life-altering consequences that follow, and importantly, the support available. It’s a powerful example of how we can all play our part in keeping people safe.”
“Through the Violence Reduction Unit, Northumbria Police, and partners, we will continue to tackle the root causes of serious violence, taking a proactive and informed approach that supports young people and prevents them from being drawn into harm.”
“By working together, we can make a real difference – educating young people early, supporting those at risk and taking action against those causing harm, helping to create safer streets, and stronger communities for everyone.”
For more information about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit or to sign up to the Violence Prevention Ambassadors programme, visit the website.
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