Local Police Visit EdStart School to Educate Students on County Lines Dangers
Students at EdStart Horwich Learn How to Stay Safe from Criminal Gangs and Exploitation
Officers from Greater Manchester Police have been working with EdStart Horwich to teach students about the risks of county lines exploitation. PC David Heald visited to speak to students as part of GMP’s ongoing work to educate young people on how criminal gangs target and recruit children and teenagers to transport drugs and carry out illegal activities across counties.
Understanding the County Lines Threat
During the visit, PC Heald led a session explaining what county lines are, how these networks operate, and how young people are often exploited by criminals. Students were told real-life stories, offered advice on spotting warning signs, and encouraged to reach out to a trusted adult if they feel at risk or know someone who may be.
“We want to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to avoid these dangerous situations,” said PC Heald. “County lines is a serious issue that affects families and communities, and the best way to tackle it is by ensuring young people understand the risks and know they have support.”
School’s Commitment to Safeguarding
Staff at EdStart Horwich have been trained to recognise signs of exploitation and ensure students are supported and safe. The school’s headteacher, Stuart Howarth, praised the initiative, saying:
“This is an important issue, and we’re grateful for the support from GMP in helping us protect our students. It was fantastic to see our students so engaged in the session and eager to learn, and I have no doubt that it has had a real impact on our young people. We’re now exploring how we can roll this out across our other EdStart schools.”
Advice for Parents and Guardians
Police have also urged parents to keep an eye out for signs of county lines exploitation, including sudden changes in a child’s behaviour, unexplained possessions, or unusual absences. They encourage anyone with concerns to reach out to local police.
