Sleaford students warned about county lines through drama
The term county lines refers to criminal gangs who move illegal drugs from cities to rural locations, and sell them using dedicated mobile phone lines.The gangs often recruit young or vulnerable people to distribute the drugs, according to Lincolnshire Police.The Home Office estimates that about 14,500 children were identified as at risk or involved in child criminal exploitation in 2023-2024.Johnnie, 12, who watched the performance, said: "I thought it was an excellent performance. It wasn't just a lecture, and it used younger people which not many performances do."Louise, 13, added: "I thought it was a really important message to tell everyone that no matter what age, gender or race you are it could happen to anyone."The show was part of a three-day residency in the area, which also included workshops and assemblies.There will also be performances on Saturday at 10:30 and 14:00 BST at Sleaford Market Place.
The events have been organised by North Kesteven District Council, alongside Lincolnshire County Council Public Health and the Safer Lincolnshire Partnership. Sgt Mel Standbrook, education sergeant at Lincolnshire Police, said: "If children are preyed upon, or if they do find they're being groomed or exploited, it's about being able to say this is what's happening, and this is how I can get help."Preventative education around knife crime and county lines is really important for our young people."
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