At the age of 12, he was using drugs. By 13, he was selling them. By 14, he was trapped in a world dominated by fear and violence. Speaking anonymously, a young man shares his powerful story of being pulled into county lines and how he found a way out. He reflects on the harsh risks, realities and misconceptions about criminal exploitation, and what needs to change to protect children from it.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Children Violence and Vulnerability 2025 - Exploitation and gangs

• Leaders Unlocked

• Just For Kids Law

The Youth Endowment Fund believes that no child should be affected by violence.  

We research violence to understand it; we find, fund and test what works to prevent it; and we are building a movement to end it.  

To find out more, visit: The Youth Endowment Fund

Follow us on Instagram: @youthendowfund 

Host: Ciaran Thapar, Youth Endowment Fund  

Series Producer: Meera Kumar