County lines
County lines is where illegal drugs are transported from one area to another, often across police and local authority boundaries.
The couriers are usually children or vulnerable people who are coerced into it by criminal gangs.
- The county line is the phone line used to take orders of drugs
What is cuckooing
Cuckooing is a term used for when criminal gangs take over a vulnerable person's house to use as a base for dealing drugs. The criminal gangs will exploit vulnerable people by giving them free drugs or offering to pay for food or utilities.
What should I do if I have concerns of county lines
Trust your instincts. Even if someone is not involved in county lines drug dealing, they may be being exploited in some other way.
You can
- report your concerns by calling 101. In an emergency, call 999
- contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
- report anti-social behaviour to us
We will work with all relevant agencies to investigate concerns.
Do you need help
If you are worried about your involvement, or a friend's involvement in county lines please:
- Speak to an adult you trust about your concerns
- Contact support agencies, such as: Childline, Catch 22, St Giles
What will the Police do
The Police have been working to identify and take effective action in areas where county lines activity is suspected.
What will the Council do
Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, along with other partners are working together to develop intelligence, prioritise action against the most serious offenders, and engage with partners across government to tackle the wider issues.
If a tenant of the Council is found to be involved in the cultivation, supply of illegal drugs, and/or involved in the exploitation of others from one of our properties enforcement action will be pursued. This means the resident risks making themselves homeless.
If a child or vulnerable person is found to be or suspected of being exploited from one of our properties, prompt support will be provided to try and ensure their safety.
Further information
More information, advice and support can be found at: