Are you listening?
Young people are being exploited by criminals in your area. They won't always act or feel like victims, often because they have been groomed to feel respected and important to criminal gangs.
It's up to all of us to know the signs and to act if you suspect a child is in danger.
The most obvious sign is a change in a child or young person’s behaviour from what is considered ‘normal’ for them.
Other signs include:
Withdrawal from usual group of friends and a mention of older or new friends
Having gifts, a new phone or money that can’t be accounted for.
Becoming withdrawn or secretive.
Receiving a large number of calls or messages to their phone or being worried about being away from their phone.
A drop in grades or performance, as well as suspension or exclusion from school
Going missing from home or not showing up to school or regular afterschool groups or clubs
Become involved in low level criminality such as antisocial behaviour.
If you suspect a child is being exploited try to talk to them. Children are more likely to open up to an adult they have an existing and trusting relationship with.
Next steps
If you think a child could be involved in this type of activity, you can contact Leicestershire Police on 101 or online. If you suspect a child is in immediate danger always call 999.
You can also call your local council children’s team for advice.
Leicester City Council 0116 4541004
Leicestershire County Council 0116 3059521
Rutland County Council 01572 758407 or their out of hours number is 0116 305 0005
Children’s charities such as the Children’s Society and the NSPCC also have information and support which can help. NSPCC - https://www.nspcc.org.uk/what-is-chil...
Children’s Society - https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/w...