Parents and carers are being invited to a free event in Bedford aimed at helping them spot the warning signs of child criminal exploitation, county lines drug networks, and knife crime.
Not My Child: A parent’s guide to exploitation, knife crime and county lines will take place on Wednesday, 1 October at the Harpur Suite in Bedford, from 6pm to 9.15pm.
The event is being organised by Bedfordshire Police in partnership with the Bedfordshire Violence and Exploitation Prevention Partnership (VEPP), following a successful launch in Luton earlier this year.
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It will bring together police officers, frontline professionals, support services and people with lived experience to share the realities of exploitation and gang involvement.
Confidence and knowledge
Attendees will hear personal stories from those affected and get practical advice on recognising the early signs that a child could be at risk. A range of charities and organisations will also be on hand to provide ongoing support to families.
Detective Chief Inspector Tom Stean said: “This event is about giving parents and carers the confidence and knowledge to recognise when something isn’t right, and the reassurance that help is out there.
“Exploitation thrives on secrecy and isolation, which is why it’s so important that we talk about it openly and raise awareness of the early, often-missed signs.
“By working together with our partners and communities, we can disrupt those who seek to exploit children and help keep young people safe.”
Further Not My Child events are planned for Luton and central Bedfordshire later this year.
Tickets are free and can be booked online in advance at Eventbrite.
