Criminal exploitation

Criminal exploitation is when somebody is forcing, persuading or encouraging you to commit crimes or get into trouble. Criminal exploitation is a serious crime and should be reported.

Take action: Someone pressuring you to break the law is an illegal act. You can make a report about yourself or someone else via Crime stoppers (anonymous) or Police 101.

When to get help

Staying out of trouble can sometimes be difficult, especially if there is pressure from older friends, family members or people you look up to.

Some young people find that changing friends or the places they hang out helps, but this can be difficult. 

But there are lots of people who can help:

• Someone at your school, like a teacher or your School Health Nurse
• Ask for support from the Targeted Youth Support Service
• If you are aged 16-18 and not in education, employment or training, ask for help from the EET Service

There are lots of other people who can support you. 

Crucial: If you’re aged 18 or under you can call the Childline helpline on 0800 1111  for free, confidential advice and support.

Groomed to commit crimes?

Some adults exploit young people by befriending them and then persuading or forcing them to commit crimes. This can be things like:

• Carrying drugs
• Hiding stolen goods
• Stealing

Adult criminals use children to do crimes because they believe that children are easily bullied, they won't go to the police, and they don't need to be paid much.

Children may receive some money but are also threatened with violence, attacked or told they need to work to pay off supposed debts. Friends and family members may also be threatened or attacked.

Crucial: In an emergency, don't worry about getting in trouble. Dial 999 and get help.

Drugs and Alcohol

Drugs and alcohol are often involved when young people get into trouble. They can make it harder to resist pressure and easier to act in ways that are dangerous. 

Crucial: Young People can access support directly to help with substance use, their own or someone else's, from Cranstoun Here4YOUTH or the Targeted Youth Support Service.