Staying out of Trouble
Some people make mistakes along the way while they are growing up and becoming adults. Usually this easily solved. But sometimes young people suffer problems as a result, like:
- Missing school or college
- Not getting important qualifications
- Drifting into risky or criminal behaviour
If this is happening to you or a friend, then you need to take action. There is lots of help is available.
Take action: Feeling bored? Want some excitement? If you're aged 16-17, you can join a National Citizen Service team.
Drugs and alcohol
When young people get into trouble drugs and alcohol are often involved. They can make it harder to resist pressure and easier to act in way that is impulsive, aggressive, or dangerous. Drugs and alcohol also make harder to think clearly about situations.
Crucial: Drinking alcohol and driving is illegal and highly dangerous. If you are aged 18+ and have plans to drink alcohol, agree to be the designated driver, or ask somebody for a lift, or book a taxi.
Talk to someone
If you are worried about your own or someone else's behaviour, then talk to a trusted adult, this could be a teacher, youth worker or social worker. These adults have a duty to make sure you are safe.
Instant expert: Keeping Children Safe on the Oxfordshire County Council Website
Becoming involved with risky people and situations can quickly become a habit. People who get bored easily, or who don't have many interests in their life, are particularly at risk.
Instant expert: Learn more about the risky situations of Gangs, Drugs and Alcohol, Radicalisation and Child Sexual Exploitation
Every year, fewer young people enter the justice system. This is because most young people don't commit crimes, and those that do often stop, either on their own or through being successfully supported to avoid crime.
Ways to help yourself
People in risky situations struggle to find opportunities and maintain healthy relationships. They are also more at risk of health problems and dropping out of education.
If you or your friends are getting involved in risky or dangerous behaviour, there are some simple changes you can make which will help:
- Change your routine
- Avoid risky situations and plans
- Pick up a new activity or hobby
Having more going on in your life means more people see you regularly, help you build skills and look out for you. This is one of the best ways to stay safe and happy.
Find out more
Related pages
Staying safe online
The internet is an important part of life and learning, but you should be aware of problems you might have online and take steps to be safe.
Victims of Crime
Know what to do if you or someone you know has been a victim of crime.
The Justice System
Why do children and young people commit crimes? And what happens if you do?
Comments
I was person that used to have a lot friends and I did made some mistakes because I wasn’t thinking clearly now i think clearly the reason I try to make a change because to be safe and others be safe too, but I have hard time getting good jobs because of my mistakes any way I didn’t give up getting job now I work with temp agency they work with company that really need people because the work is really hard and I am working on getting my CDL so I can drive trucks
Thank you for sharing your story, it is really inspiring to hear how well you are doing now, and we wish you the best of luck with your upcoming driving test.
Hi Nathan, thank you for sharing your story, it is really inspiring to hear and we wish you all the best.
I'm having problems right now … where can I get help!
Hello! I've edited your reply to remove the personal information, for your privacy, as this is a public website.
Children who need to talk to someone right away in the UK can always call Childline or link up with them online. For older young people (aged 16+) the Site offers online forums where youth workers offer support.
You did not mention where you are from, but similar online support is available in other countries too.
All the best
the Oxme team
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