Year 8 students recently took part in an informative and thought-provoking presentation delivered by officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, focusing on recognising and understanding the risks of county lines and child exploitation.

The session aimed to educate students about how criminal networks operate and how young people can sometimes be targeted and manipulated. Officers explained that county lines refers to a form of criminal exploitation where organised crime groups use children and vulnerable people to transport and sell drugs across different areas, often using dedicated mobile phone lines to coordinate activity.

During the presentation, students learnt about:

• How grooming can happen – including how criminals may offer gifts, money, friendship or status to build trust.

• Warning signs to look out for – such as secrecy, unexplained money or possessions, changes in behaviour, or being absent from school.

• The risks and consequences – including the dangers to personal safety, mental wellbeing and future opportunities.

• How to seek help – understanding that support is always available from trusted adults, school staff, parents and the police.
   

The officers delivered the session in an age-appropriate and engaging way, using real-life examples to help students understand how easily exploitation can occur and why it is important to speak up if something feels wrong.

Students were encouraged to remember that exploitation is never the victim’s fault and that there are always people ready to listen and help. The presentation reinforced the importance of staying safe, looking out for one another, and making positive choices.

We would like to thank Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary for taking the time to visit our school and for providing such an important and impactful session for our Year 8 students. I would also like to congratulate all of Year 8 for their impeccable behaviour and mature attitude.