Millions get help to spot exploitation of children

FILM MADE BY POLICE GIVES ADVICE ABOUT CRIME GANGS

HANDY ADVICE: Lord Bach, top centre, and Chief Constable Simon Cole, top right, are among those supporting the Are You Listening? video campaign

A POLICE campaign to raise awareness of child criminal exploitation (CCE) has reached more than 3.5 million people.

Are you Listening? asks adults to look out for signs of CCE – most often drugdealing, including grooming youngsters for county lines activity.

The campaign was launched by Leicestershire Police and the Violence Reduction Network in November.

The three-minute campaign film produced by the Leicestershire force is aimed at all adults who have children or grandchildren, as well as those who work with young people.

Police also run two workshops a month for teachers, parents, sports coaches and anyone else who works with young people to help them recognise the signs of exploitation and encourage them to act immediately if they have information or concerns.

So far, 435 people have attended a session, with 1,000 on the waiting list.

The Violence Reduction Network (VRN), which brings together specialists from a range of sectors including policing, health, education, local authorities, criminal justice and communities, was established by police and crime commissioner Lord (Willy) Bach.

Detective Chief Inspector Helen Fletcher, the force’s child exploitation and safeguarding lead, said: “The popularity of the workshops, which are always oversubscribed, shows there is a real thirst for knowledge among adults who work with children and young people to understand the signs of child exploitation and know how, and where, to get help.

“These adults play a crucial role in prevention as we know many young people often don’t realise they are being exploited or are too scared to ask for help.

“Everyone has a role to play in raising awareness of child exploitation.”

Grace Strong, VRN strategic director, said: “Exploitation is devastating for children, families and communities.

“Partners within our safeguarding hub are working hard to protect children and young people from harm.

“This film aims to raise awareness and empower these adults to be active bystanders, understanding the signs and taking appropriate action.

“I would urge all adults to take just three minutes today and watch the film so we can all play our part in keeping all children and young people safe.”

Watch the film at: