The National Police Chief Council has defined County Lines as ‘a term used to describe gangs and organised criminal networks involved in exporting illegal drugs into one or more importing areas [within the UK], using dedicated mobile phone lines or another form of “deal line”. They are likely to exploit children and vulnerable adults to move [and store] the drugs and money and they will often use coercion, intimidation, violence (including sexual violence) and weapons.’

No matter how quiet and sleepy a county Dorset might appear, the police have plenty of evidence that County Line activity is frequent here.

Those who manipulate the youngsters to carry or store drugs use any lever possible to exert power over them. Once hooked into this, it is virtually impossible for a youngster to leave the gang without adult support.

Gangs also ‘cuckoo’ vulnerable young people, taking over their home for a short period, particularly in small rural communities and intimidating the resident(s) to act for them. Just like a cuckoo takes over another bird’s nest for its own offspring, County Lines gangs target those who often cannot stand up to them.

What are the possible signs that youngsters are involved with or are victims of County Lines?

Many of what follows can also indicate other abuses or concerns and are not solely indicative of participation in County Lines. Nevertheless, it is important to know what they may signify:

• New gadgets, money or gifts
• Unexplained absences from school
• Possession of several phones
• Using language such as
  •  ‘going county’/’going bunch’
  • Trap line: a phone dedicated to drug misuse
  • Plugging: using the anus, rectum or vagina to store drugs for transport
  • Shotter: a drug dealer
• Change in behaviour
• The decline in academic progress

If you have any concerns that a student may be involved in County Lines or is becoming involved, it is very important to report your concerns to the DSL as soon as possible. You can also ring the police directly.

Don’t hesitate to share your concerns. Children as young as 7 or 8 can be part of this problem and early intervention is crucial.