Whether you’re concerned about someone you know being criminally exploited or you are involved yourself, it’s important to remember that there is a way out and help and support are available for you.

The best way of getting help is to talk to an adult that you can trust such as a parent, teacher, head of year, social worker or sports coach for example.  The important thing is to make sure that it’s an adult that you can trust and that will have your best interests at heart.

Remember, making a child commit crime is a crime and so you can report the problem to the police who will be able to put support in place to protect you.   If you’re ever in immediate danger, you should call the police on 999

If you’re not sure who to talk to, you can contact ChildLine on 0800 1111 or visit their website here.

As well as talking to a trusted adult, you could also try to distance yourself from the person or people who are pressuring you to commit crime.  Try gradually spending less time with them or reducing your communication with them if you’re able to.  Try and avoid places that they’re likely to be such as addresses, streets or areas that you know they go to.  It’s also a good idea to avoid being on your own.

Finding yourself a hobby, sport or activity that you’re interested in can also help you to break away from someone who is exploiting you.  Perhaps you already have something in mind, if not, check out what’s available in Derby here.