What is Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE)?

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 Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) occurs when young people are manipulated, coerced, or forced into committing crimes for the benefit of others. Many victims do not recognise that they are being exploited, as criminals use control tactics such as trust-building, deception, and intimidation.

Young people may be groomed and exploited for:

• County Lines Drug Trafficking – Moving and selling drugs across different areas.
• Violence & Knife Crime – Being pressured to carry weapons or enforce violence.
• Cuckooing – Criminals taking over their home or a vulnerable adult’s home.
• Theft, Robbery & Fraud – Being forced to steal or commit financial crimes.
• Debt Bondage – A young person is tricked into believing they ‘owe’ criminals and must work it off through criminal acts.

Exploitation happens in all communities, and some of the key risk factors include: 

Poverty & Social Inequality – Young people seeking financial independence or basic needs. 

Lack of Positive Role Models – Filling the gap left by absent or inconsistent caregivers. 

Exclusion from Education – Alternative provisions or being out of school increase vulnerability.

Unstable Home Life – Exposure to domestic violence, ACEs, or parental issues. 

Fear & Threats – Criminals use blackmail, violence, and control to keep young people trapped.

• Unexplained gifts, money, or expensive items.
• Frequently missing from school or home
• Physical injuries, signs of violence, or being fearful
• Carrying a weapon, new phone numbers, or unknown contact
• Changes in behaviour, secrecy, or becoming withdrawn

1-2-1 Mentoring & Emotional Support – Providing trusted, consistent relationships.
CCE Awareness Sessions – Educating young people, parents, and professionals.
Safe Exit Strategies – Supporting young people to disengage safely from criminal networks.
School & Community Programmes – Working directly with schools, youth centres, and local services to tackle CCE.