Focus on County Lines Crime

The criminal exploitation of vulnerable people across South Tyneside will be discussed at a community meeting next week.

West Shields residents are encouraged to come along to the next meeting of their Community Area Forum (CAF) to learn more about 'county lines'.

County lines is an emerging type of criminal exploitation linked with drug dealing and the transportation of drugs that affects vulnerable people of all ages, predominantly children.

Members will hear how the Safeguarding Partnership is raising awareness of this issue with young people, the local business community and multi-agency workers across South Tyneside.

Chair of the West Shields CAF, Councillor Olive Punchion, said: "County lines is emerging in many towns and major cities across the UK.

"Knowing how to spot the signs and how to report concerns could help protect a child or vulnerable adult who is being exploited.

"Raising awareness of this kind of activity is extremely important and I would encourage as many residents as possible to come to the meeting and learn more."

The meeting will be held at 10am on Thursday 5 March at Chuter Ede CIO, Galsworthy Road. Members of the public and press are welcome.