This presentation is for parents, carers, educators and anyone working with young people to gain a better understanding of gangs and crime. You will learn how to recognise the signs of exploitation and to support young people at risk of being drawn into crime and being potentially targeted and exploited. We will look at the impact of crime on people’s mental health and on our communities at large. We look at risk, safeguarding and understanding the different stages of young people’s brain development in relation to criminal activity.

We will explore the signs within our communities, the challenges and various support in our local community and UK-wide. We know that everyone is affected by crime, directly or indirectly. Safeguarding young people is paramount and we offer guidance on having the confidence to approach this area and the impact it will have on the wellbeing of all concerned.

We know that county lines are growing across the UK and we will look at young people who are mostly likely to be exploited or who are attracted to or targeted in this area.

By having the information, knowledge and understanding we need, we can feel more confident to offer interventions and support to our young people, to protect their futures and their wellbeing.