Keeping your foster child safe from county lines

County lines refers to the act of criminals exploiting young people into carrying out illegal activity.

It happens up and down the country and mostly affects children aged between 14-17, and those who have problems at home; however, young people of all backgrounds and classes can be targets.

Beacon Fostering seeks to ensure that children and young people in foster care have the best starts in life, free from fear, so here’s what you need to know if you suspect county lines activity is happening near you.

Signs of exploitation

While it can be difficult to see overt evidence that your child is involved in criminal activity, there are signs you can look for.

Children who are in foster care are seen by criminal groups as easy targets, and they are often attracted to the sense of belonging and inclusion they believe this can bring.

If they are involved in county lines, they may have new goods that they are not able to account for; they might be travelling to areas that they wouldn’t otherwise go to; they may isolate themselves from friends and/or there may be changes in their mental health.
If you see any of these signs, contact your social worker.

Terminology

Learning about the terms that those involved in county lines use will be useful in understanding what they are talking about, since they aren’t usually upfront about their activities. For instance, ‘trapping’ is the act of selling and moving substances.

If you need additional advice or support, contact your fostering agency.