Your report on the link between school exclusions and county line activity makes for a thought-provoking read (Hundreds of children thrown out of school in English county lines hotspots, 29 August). It is in the best interests of society to ensure all children are provided with an education and the safe haven that school represents for many of them.
Exclusion from mainstream education has become a recurring issue in the context of the services offered by St Giles Trust, aimed at assisting children and young people to safely exit child criminal exploitation. Our initial county lines intervention service revealed that every young person we assisted was no longer part of mainstream education when we met them. Subsequent projects we have undertaken often report similarly alarming statistics, with approximately 85% of the young people we support being out of mainstream education.
These figures underscore the uphill battle alternative provision faces in trying to pick up the pieces. Being disconnected from the educational system undoubtedly heightens a young person’s vulnerability to exploitation, while potentially curtailing their future opportunities. Prevention is undeniably crucial.
We engage with schools to equip children with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves, recognise risks and make informed choices. This work begins at a primary school age. Our dedicated staff, many of whom have first-hand experience within the criminal justice system, bring credibility and unique insights to these crucial conversations. They combine their passion with expertise to empower children to think critically, resist peer pressure, build positive relationships and maintain their engagement with education.
It is sobering that we find ourselves educating seven-year-olds about county lines exploitation. However, these early interventions serve as a vital shield against future trauma and heartbreak.
Tracey Burley
Chief executive, St Giles Trust
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