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County Lines
At Chiltern Hills Academy, keeping our students safe is at the heart of everything we do. Sadly, some young people across the UK can be targeted by organised criminal groups through something known as county lines.
County lines is a form of criminal exploitation where gangs persuade, pressure, or force children and young people to carry drugs, money, or weapons between different areas. This can happen anywhere — including here in Buckinghamshire — and it is both against the law and a form of child abuse.
How exploitation happens
Criminal exploitation can take many forms, including:
- County lines drug networks
- Child sexual exploitation
- Trafficking
- Gang involvement and knife crime
These gangs are often highly organised and use manipulative techniques to groom young people. They may promise money, friendship, or protection — but in reality, they are exploiting and placing children at risk.
County Lines Information & Support
Explore the sections below to learn more about the County Lines guidance, support systems and key information we provide to help keep every student safe, supported and well cared for.
Warning Signs to Look Out For
Warning Signs to Look Out For
A child may be at risk of county lines or criminal exploitation if you notice:
- Unexplained money, gifts, or possessions they can’t account for
- Frequent absence from school or going missing from home
- New friendships, particularly with older individuals, that cause concern
- Excessive phone use, often with multiple mobiles or secrecy about calls/messages
- Sudden changes in behaviour – becoming withdrawn, anxious, or unusually aggressive
- Unexplained injuries or signs they may be frightened or unsafe
- Travelling to unfamiliar areas without clear reason or explanation
- Decline in schoolwork or attendance despite no previous concerns
What to do if you’re worried
If you are concerned that a child may be involved in county lines or any form of exploitation:
- Report it immediately. Concerns can be shared with the school’s Safeguarding Team at: safeguarding@chacademy.co.uk or by calling 01494 782066.
- If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call 999 straight away.
- You can also find professional guidance and tools on the Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Partnership website: Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Partnership – Exploitation
Useful Links
Safeguarding Children Partnership website: Buckinghamshire Safeguarding Children Partnership – Exploitation
Principal Insight
Protecting children is everyone’s responsibility. By being informed and vigilant, we can prevent harm and ensure every child at Chiltern Hills Academy — and in our wider community — is supported to grow up safe, confident, and free from exploitation.