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Gangs, County Lines & Knife Crime

It can be tempting for young people to join a gang, but it can lead to being involved in criminal activity and have very serious consequences for the rest of your life.

Sometimes young people might regret becoming involved, but find it hard to leave because they are scared of other people in the gang. Others might enjoy the feeling of belonging and they might accept criminal behaviour as part of being in the gang.

If you know someone who has become involved with a gang or is taking part in criminal activity, you are probably worried about them and want to help. This is not always easy, but on this page, we'll look more at the dangers young people face when they are drawn into gangs and how you can help someone if you are worried about them.

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All You Need to Know

Who Can Help?

If there's an adult or friend you can trust, have a chat with them about your questions or worries. They might be able to put your mind at rest or give you some useful advice.

If you think a friend is in immediate danger contact the police on 999.

If someone you know is not in immediate danger but at risk of harm contact the Norfolk Children's Advice and Duty Service (CADS) on 0344 800 8020. Children's Services will listen to your call. They may act immediately to keep a child safe and they also work with families to offer support at difficult times.

If you live in Norfolk:

If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

If you live in Waveney:

You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.

The NSPCC is a registered charity fighting to end child abuse in the UK. You can find advice on how you can keep children safe, where to go for help, and the latest news stories relating to child safety.

Childline - if you're under 19, you can call 0800 1111 for free support.

Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm. 


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