County Lines: Signs, Prevention & Guidance for Foster Carers - Lorimer Fostering

Lorimer - At the heart of fostering

County Lines: Signs, Prevention & Guidance for Foster Carers

County lines is a form of child criminal exploitation where organised criminal groups use children or vulnerable people to transport, store, or sell drugs across towns, cities, or counties. It is important to remember: the child is a victim, not an offender.

Criminal groups coerce, manipulate, threaten, and use violence to control young people, often targeting those seeking belonging, facing instability, or fearing authority.

Why Children in Care May Be at Risk

Young people in foster care can be particularly vulnerable to county lines exploitation due to factors such as:

  • Past trauma or disrupted attachments

  • Feeling isolated or misunderstood

  • A desire for independence or financial gain

  • Reduced trust in adults

  • Increased time online or in the community

Criminal groups are highly skilled at identifying and exploiting these vulnerabilities.

Signs & Indicators to Watch For

No single behaviour confirms county lines involvement, but patterns of change can signal concern.

Behavioural Signs

  • Going missing or returning late without explanation

  • Sudden changes in friendship groups

  • Increased secrecy around phones or social media

  • Unexplained aggression, anxiety, or withdrawal

  • Reluctance to engage with school or activities

Financial & Lifestyle Signs

  • Unexplained money, gifts, or new items

  • Multiple phones or SIM cards

  • Travel to unfamiliar areas

  • Talking about “work”, “business”, or owing money

Physical & Emotional Signs

  • Signs of exhaustion or poor self-care

  • Injuries or unexplained bruises

  • Fearfulness, hypervigilance, or low mood

  • Changes in sleep patterns

Prevention: How Carers Can Help Protect Young People

Build Strong, Trusting Relationships

  • Be consistent, reliable, and emotionally available

  • Encourage open conversations without judgement

  • Reassure young people they will not be blamed for exploitation

Increase Awareness

  • Talk age-appropriately about exploitation and grooming

  • Help young people understand how criminals manipulate trust

  • Discuss online safety and peer pressure

Promote Protective Factors

  • Support education, hobbies, and positive peer relationships

  • Encourage routine and stability

  • Celebrate achievements and strengths

What Foster Carers Should Do If They Are Worried

Act Early

  • Share concerns with the supervising social worker immediately

  • Record changes in behaviour or incidents

Respond Supportively

  • Avoid confrontation or accusations

  • Focus on safety and wellbeing

  • Reassure the young person they are not in trouble

Work as Part of the Team

  • Engage with multi-agency professionals

  • Attend meetings and reviews where concerns are raised

  • Ask for additional support or training if needed

Key Messages for Carers

  • County lines is exploitation, not a choice

  • Young people may not see themselves as victims

  • Early intervention can prevent serious harm

  • You are not expected to manage concerns alone

This article equips foster carers with practical guidance to recognise risks, support young people safely, and take appropriate action.

Looking for More Guidance?

Our Fostering Information Hub is full of practical articles designed to support foster carers at every stage of their journey. From understanding children’s behaviour and trauma to building resilience, supporting teens, and caring for yourself, you’ll find a wide range of resources to explore. Visit our Fostering Information Hub to discover more articles you may find helpful and relevant to your fostering experience.