TRANMERE Rovers together with schools, partners and the police joined forces last week to host a county lines event, aimed at helping young people understand the dangers of drugs and criminal exploitation.

The event was organised by Merseyside Police’s Safer Schools Co-ordinator, Faye Smith, and took place at the People’s Hub on Friday, February 2. 

50 young people, aged 11-13, from schools in Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, and Wirral took part in an afternoon of impactful conversations and activities, all aimed at explaining the county lines ‘business model’ and the dangers of exploitation in an interactive way, outside the classroom. 

The event was the conclusion to a week-long initiative by the Safer Schools Team, who delivered educational workshops and activities focused on raising awareness of county lines to school age children. 

The students took part in a range of workshops, talks and Q&As delivered by the force’s County Lines Taskforce, Cyber Dependent Crime Unit, Fairness in Policing team and Safer Schools Officers. Football sessions were delivered by Everton FC, Liverpool FC Foundation and Tranmere Rovers and boxing sessions by non-for-profit Catch22. 

Faye Smith, Safer Schools Co-ordinator at Merseyside Police, said: “Events likes these are vital to empowering and educating young people about County Lines and how to make positive choices in life. 

“The young people tackled some tough conversations and were engaged throughout the different workshops and presentations. The feedback we have had from them, and the teachers has been brilliant. 

"This hands-on event provided a creative way to educate and engage with children about the signs to look out for and where to turn to for help and advice.” 

If you are a young person who is worried about being involved in county lines, or knows someone who is, you can speak to an adult and let them know how you feel. 

You can contact www.fearless.org who allow you to pass on information about crime anonymously, or Childline on 0800 1111. They are a private and confidential service where you can talk to counsellors about anything that is worrying you.