18/03/2026
| Today is National Child Exploitation Awareness Day.
Today is about shining a light on the hidden harm caused by those who groom and exploit young people for their own gain and profit.
Child criminal exploitation is a serious form of abuse, often involving county line networks targeting teenagers and manipulating them into criminal activity such as running drugs, choosing them because they are less likely to be suspected or stopped.
We are working to raise awareness among parents, carers, communities and young people themselves about the signs that someone may be being exploited – and to remind them that support is always available, no matter how difficult the situation may seem.
There are several signs to look out for:
🚆 Repeatedly going missing from school or home and being found in other areas
💷 Having money, new clothes or electronic devices and they can't explain how they paid for them
📱 Getting high numbers of texts or phone calls, being secretive about who they're speaking to
📉 Decline in school or work performance
🪫 Significant changes in emotional or physical well-being
More than 90% of people in Bedfordshire involved in county drug lines at a lower level are boys - but exploitation can happen to any child or young person, regardless of gender, background, ethnicity, age or religion.
By knowing the signs, starting conversations, sharing information and seeking help when needed, you can help us tackle exploitation in our communities and protect young people.
Visit https://orlo.uk/fjEBu for more and help spread awareness of this important message.