WSCB warn of the threat to Warwickshire pupils from organised crime groups

Warwickshire Safeguarding Children’s Board is urging professionals working with children and young people to be vigilant for signs of vulnerability or involvement in organised crime and to raise awareness of the dangers with children, parents and carers.

There is a growing threat to young people in Warwickshire, with school pupils being targeted and exploited by organised crime groups operating in the area.

There are known cases of gangs involved in organised crime operating in the north and south of the county, and children as young as 13 years being exploited by County Lines groups based in Birmingham and Coventry. 

This important briefing provides further information about the County Lines groups operating locally, the signs to watch out for to spot if a child or young person might be at risk, and what to do if you have serious concerns. There are also some helpful links to information and guidance on the Children's Society and Gov.uk websites.

We would strongly encourage you to share this with all staff to help them to spot the signs and so they can also make pupils aware of the dangers.