South West PCC’s and police forces unite to tackle child criminal exploitation across the region

Teenagers from across the South West are being told to ‘Spot the signs’ of child exploitation amid the growing threat of county lines in a targeted TikTok and snapchat advertising campaign.  

The adverts highlight what child criminal exploitation looks like, how to spot the signs and where to get help and support. Links to regional services and helplines will ensure that anyone affected can access help quickly and safely.

Recognising that these crimes do not stop at borders, Wiltshire, Avon and Somerset, Devon and Cornwall, Dorset and Gloucestershire police forces alongside their respective OPCCs, have combined resources to take a bold stand against exploitation.

Criminal gangs are increasingly targeting children to transport drugs and cash across county boundaries, using coercion, intimidation and violence. This exploitation can have devastating consequences for young people and their families. 

It is the first time that the South West region has launched a coordinated awareness campaign on TikTok and Snapchat, designed to reach young people where they spend much of their time - online. 

The campaign features short, impactful videos designed specifically for TikTok and Snapchat, using relatable language and visuals to resonate with young audiences.  

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon, Philip Wilkinson said: “This campaign represents a united front against those who seek to harm our children. By working together and using platforms young people most engage with, we can raise awareness and prevent exploitation before it happens. 

“By definition, county line drug gangs don’t recognise borders and often use children and vulnerable young people to transport drugs across the country.  
“By working together across the region we want to make the South West a hostile place for those who exploit our young people create significant harm to our young people and make our communities safer.” 

Detective Superintendent Megan Elkins said: "Criminal gangs exploit fear and vulnerability to draw young people into their networks, often using coercion and violence to maintain control. This campaign is about breaking that cycle by giving teenagers the knowledge and confidence to recognise exploitation and seek help before it’s too late. Every child deserves to feel safe, and that means empowering communities to spot the signs and speak out.

"Intelligence is absolutely critical in tackling child criminal exploitation. Every piece of information—no matter how small—can help us build a clearer picture, disrupt criminal activity, and safeguard vulnerable children. By working together across the South West, sharing intelligence and resources, we can dismantle these networks, protect the most vulnerable, and send a clear message: exploitation will not be tolerated."

Published Friday 28 November 2025