23/03/2026
As well as the practical, ‘off-the-job’ workshop training delivered to the first-year apprentices in our Centre, we also ensure that they receive tutorials on real-world situations that they may face.
Last week PC Richards from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary gave a tutorial on County Lines and the criminal exploitation of children by organised drug gangs from large urban areas expanding their operations into smaller towns, suburban and rural areas.
He explained that County Lines is a form of criminal exploitation where children become befriended, either on or offline, and then slowly manipulated until eventually being trapped into ‘working’ for the gangs. A hard-hitting case study based on a real-life account was used to demonstrate how this could happen.
If you would like to speak to the someone about you or someone you think may be involved or at risk you can report it to:
• The Police – 999 if someone is violent, in danger or a serious crime is happening right now
• 101 – reporting a crime that has already happened or providing information (non emergency)
• Fearless – 0800 555 111 – 100% anonymous, youth service part of Crimestoppers. https://crimestoppers-uk.org/fearless
• Safecall – call or text 116 000 - confidential - part of the Missing People Charity
