POLICE have launched a new campaign to help parents battle criminal gangs exploiting vulnerable children.

'Trapped' is an effort to help at-risk young people and adults who are being coerced into committing crimes on behalf of organised gangs.

The latest step will see police, local authorities, criminal justice agencies and the voluntary sector combine to create a Complex Safeguarding Team in Bolton and the other boroughs of Greater Manchester.

The campaign also features two short films ‘County Lines’ and 'The Present’ that highlight the different ways in which victims can be coerced to carry out criminal activity including arson, violent offences, storing firearms, holding money, criminal damage or assault.

GMP assistant chief constable Mabs Hussain said: “Criminal exploitation is an abhorrent crime that prays on children and vulnerable adults and we will continue to do everything in our power to support victims and bring those responsible to justice.

“Those subjected to this form of exploitation are victims, not criminals and I want to reassure anybody who feels trapped that there is a way out.

“This campaign will help people recognise when they or a loved one are being targeted for exploitation, giving advice on how to get help and report it."

The police have advised that coercion can take a variety of forms, including debt or other financial problems and drug addiction.

Deputy mayor of Greater Manchester, Bev Hughes, said: “Criminal exploitation is a vile form of modern slavery, where people are treated as commodities. Children and vulnerable adults are being exploited, threatened and trapped by organised crime groups to do their criminal work. It must be stopped."

Police have advised parents and carers to look out for the following signs that a young or vulnerable person could be trapped and need help:

  • Young people going missing or travelling to areas where they have no obvious links or connections.
  • Unexpected, repeated or prolonged absence from school.
  • Money, clothes or accessories which they are unable to account for.
  • Receiving an excessive amount of texts and phone calls.
  • Relationships with controlling or older individuals or groups.
  • Carrying weapons.
  • Significant decline in school results or performance.
  • Self-harm or significant changes in emotional wellbeing – appearing withdrawn, anxious or depressed.

Reports can be made to 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

To see the videos, visit: www.programmechallenger.co.uk/what_we_do/trapped/.