The official launch of ‘Eyes Open’ happened yesterday- a campaign aimed at raising awareness of child criminal exploitation and county lines.
Co-developed by police forces in Merseyside, Greater Manchester, North Wales and Lancashire- the initiative seeks to educate young people, parents, and carers about the dangers of grooming, exploitation and manipulative tactics used by criminal gangs to coerce children into transporting and selling drugs.
The campaign has unfolded through extensive research, focus groups and lived experience case studies, to ensure it is a true reflection of diverse and personal experiences.
Through educational workshops and their website with further information will be offered to young people and carers- focusing on the predatory nature of gangs and how they groom children through ‘free gifts’ such as designer clothes, vapes or expensive bikes.
Detective Inspector Adam Norton, National County Lines Coordination Centre and Coordinator for the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit said, “As we launch the Eyes Open campaign today, we stand united in our commitment to protect our children and young people from the devastating impact of county lines exploitation.
“Everyone has a responsibility to stay vigilant and protect the most vulnerable in our communities from harm. By joining forces, we can drive the response needed to break the cycle of exploitation and build a safer, more informed future for all”.
Each police force involved in the campaign carries out dedicated county lines operations to disrupt criminal and safeguard victims of exploitation. Earlier this year, in March, 237 arrests linked to county lines activity were made across Merseyside with 8 drugs lines were identified.
If you or someone you know is being affected by county lines, you can anonymously contact Crimestoppers or if in immediate danger always call 999.
Click here to visit the ‘Eyes Open’ website https://eyes-open.co.uk/
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