An introduction to substance misuse and county lines
Are You Listening? is a powerful film funded by the Violence Reduction Network (VRN) and produced in conjunction with police and partners across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR), hoping to raise awareness of a growing issue in the UK – known as ‘Child Criminal Exploitation’ (CCE).
Evidence shows children are more likely to open up to an adult they have an existing and trusting relationship with. This can include parents, grandparents and extended family members, teachers or other school staff, sports or leisure coaches and community leaders.
Children don’t always speak up when they are in trouble but there are often some clear signs that could indicate they are being exploited. They don’t always see themselves as victims so won’t always act as if something is wrong.
Free online workshops
The workshops are delivered by Katie Hudson, Children and Young Persons Officer and James Edmondston, Substance Misuse Team Leader, aimed at professionals and carers of young people such as teachers, care workers, coaches or parents and grandparents.
The workshops will improve your teams’ knowledge and awareness of topics such as county lines and substance misuse and how you can protect young people in your care.
The workshops will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Registration is required. Joining instructions will be sent 3 days before the event, at which point, sign-ups will be closed to join.
Substance misuse aims & objectives
- To provide an overview of substance use locally amongst young people
- Who uses substances
- Where do they use them
- Why are they using them
- How are they accessing them
- The most commonly used substances
- Emerging risks & issues
- Spotting the signs of use & local support
County lines aims & objectives
- An understanding of child criminal exploitation
- An understanding of county lines and the risks it presents
- An understanding of why gangs are targeting young people
- Key warning signs of county lines
If you have any questions or queries, please e-mail [email protected].