Alarming new research has exposed the scale at which criminal gangs are targeting and exploiting teenagers across England and Wales, with thousands being drawn into activities like drug dealing and storing weapons.
Widespread Targeting of Vulnerable Youth
A major survey commissioned by the Youth Endowment Fund, polling nearly 11,000 children aged 13 to 17, found that more than one in nine had been approached in the last 12 months. They were asked to sell or transport drugs, or to hide weapons, drugs, or money.
Disturbingly, over a quarter of those approached agreed to participate. This equates to an estimated 120,000 teenagers across England and Wales becoming involved in these criminal enterprises. The research, published in December 2025, highlights a systemic issue of child criminal exploitation.
Coercion, Threats, and a Lack of Support
The methods used to ensnare young people are often manipulative and threatening. The survey revealed that 42% of those approached were offered money or other incentives, while 27% were tempted with free drugs or alcohol.
For many, the situation quickly turns coercive. Around one in five teenagers reported threats of physical or sexual violence, 18% were blackmailed, and a similar proportion were told they owed a debt to their exploiters.
The personal story of "James," whose name has been changed, illustrates this tragic path. Starting to use cannabis and MDMA at age 12 to cope with family illness and neurodiversity, he was soon exploited by those supplying him. By 13, he was dealing drugs and facing "borderline gang affiliation." He lived in constant fear for his safety, picturing being shot or kidnapped, and felt utterly abandoned by support systems, even being called a liar when he sought help after an arrest. It was only with intervention from third-sector organisations at age 19 that his charges were dropped and he began to rebuild his life.
Gang Involvement and Official Response
The research also quantified gang involvement. Two per cent of teenagers said they had been in a gang in the past year, with a further 4% having been in one previously. Notably, girls accounted for over a third of those in a gang in the past year and 37% of those who stored or transported illicit items.
Jon Yates, CEO at the Youth Endowment Fund, stated: "It’s horrifying how many children are being targeted... we are letting thousands of our children be exploited into crime. We must recognise the warning signs and provide timely support."
In response, a Home Office spokesperson emphasised their ongoing pursuit of criminal gangs, noting that since the last election, more than 1,120 senior gang members have been charged for county lines offences. They also announced plans for three new criminal offences to further combat this form of exploitation and ensure tougher punishments.
