County Lines

County lines groups often:

• Pretend to be friendly or offer gifts at first

• Promise money, protection, or belonging

• Use fear, threats, or violence

• Take over someone’s home (called “cuckooing”)

• Make young people travel long distances

• Use debt, pressure, or intimidation to keep control

They look for ways to make you feel trapped — but there is a way out, and there are people who can help.

Someone might be caught up in county lines if they:

• Get unexplained money, new clothes, or gifts

• Become secretive or withdrawn

• Are missing from home or school more often

• Have new older “friends”

• Receive lots of calls or messages

• Seem scared, tired, or on edge

• Travel to places they won’t talk about

• Have injuries they try to hide

If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to tell someone you trust.

People affected by county lines may feel:

• Scared

• Trapped

• Confused

• Alone

• Guilty

• Angry

• Pressured

These feelings are normal. Exploitation affects your confidence, safety, and wellbeing — but support is always available.

Stress from being pressured or controlled can cause:

• Trouble sleeping

• Stomach aches

• Headaches

• Changes in appetite

• Feeling sick or shaky

• Difficulty focusing

• Tiredness

• Overthinking

Your body responds when something doesn’t feel right — it’s trying to warn you.

1. Tell Someone You Trust

Talking to an adult you trust is the most important step.
This could be:

• A parent or carer

• A teacher

• A youth worker

• A family friend

• A school counsellor

You don’t have to explain everything at once — just saying “I’m worried about something” is enough to start.

2. You Can Always Say No

If someone tries to involve you, you can:

• Walk away

• Ignore messages

• Block numbers

• Stay with people who make you feel safe

Your safety matters more than anything they promise.

3. You Are Not in Trouble

If you speak up, adults want to help you stay safe — not punish you.
County lines groups rely on fear and silence. Breaking that silence protects you.

4. Stay Around Safe People

Spend time with friends, family, or adults who support you.
Positive people help you feel grounded and remind you of your worth.

5. Look After Yourself

Do things that make you feel calmer — music, sport, hobbies, talking, or resting.
Stress is heavy, and you deserve moments of peace.

6. Get Help If You Need It

If you feel trapped, scared, or unsure, reach out for help.
There are trusted adults and professionals who understand county lines and know how to protect you. You can always contact Merseyside Police for support and advice on 111

County lines isn’t just “bad behaviour.” It’s exploitation.
People who run these operations often use fear, violence, and manipulation.
You deserve protection, safety, and support — always.

Speaking up can protect you and others who might be going through the same thing.

County lines can make you feel stuck, but you are not powerless.
You are not to blame.
You deserve help, and you deserve to feel safe.

Reaching out isn’t grassing— it’s surviving.

It’s brave.

And it’s the first step toward getting your life back.