County lines
A model of drug supply that exploits children to move and sell drugs from urban areas to other parts of the UK. Children involved are victims of criminal exploitation.
In plain English
A model of drug supply that exploits children to move and sell drugs from urban areas to other parts of the UK. Children involved are victims of criminal exploitation.
Why it matters
Children may go missing for short or long periods, carry unfamiliar phones, or have unexplained cash and gifts. Police and social care use the National Referral Mechanism to protect children identified as victims of modern slavery via county lines.
Related
Reporting routes
Sources
- County lines— National Crime Agency
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17