Recent statistics reveal a concerning rise in the number of girls and young women identified as victims of county lines exploitation in the UK. According to Catch22, a charity dedicated to supporting victims of this form of criminal activity, females represented 22% of its caseload in 2025, a notable increase from 15% the previous year. This figure underscores the urgent need for a more nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding gender and exploitation in this context.
The County Lines Issue
County lines refers to the practice whereby gangs transport drugs from urban areas to rural locales, often exploiting vulnerable individuals, including minors, to facilitate their operations. Launched in 2019 and continued under successive governments, the national county lines programme aims to dismantle these criminal networks. The latest data indicates significant progress, with 2,740 county lines shut down in 2025, alongside the arrest of 1,657 gang leaders and the seizure of 961 knives.
Despite these achievements, Catch22 highlights a critical gap in the support offered to young women. Marike van Harskamp, the charity’s head of policy, emphasised that the prevailing perception of county lines exploitation tends to focus predominantly on boys, leading to a lack of recognition for girls as victims. This oversight can have dire consequences for their safety and recovery.
Complexities of Gendered Exploitation
Van Harskamp pointed out that the pathways leading girls into county lines exploitation are often more intricate than those for boys. Many girls become ensnared in what is referred to as the “boyfriend model,” where they are groomed into believing they are entering a relationship, only to find themselves coerced into illicit activities such as drug transport. This parallels patterns observed in child sexual exploitation, revealing an urgent need for tailored support systems that address these unique experiences.
Catch22’s findings further illustrate the disparities in support services. While approximately half of the boys referred to the charity received assistance through the National Referral Mechanism, only one in six girls did. This disparity highlights a systemic issue in recognising and addressing the needs of young women who fall victim to these predatory practices.
The Role of Social Media
A significant factor contributing to the rise in exploitation is the use of social media as a grooming tool. Gangs frequently leverage platforms like Snapchat to target young individuals, particularly those with pre-existing vulnerabilities such as mental health issues, unstable home environments, or educational challenges. Van Harskamp noted the importance of identifying these risks early, as unaddressed vulnerabilities can lead to long-term mental health issues and perpetuate cycles of exploitation.
The charity advocates for specialised mental health support for victims, recognising the correlation between poor mental health and diminished life opportunities. The trauma associated with exploitation can have lasting effects, and the need for comprehensive aftercare is paramount in breaking this cycle.
Ongoing Commitment to Combatting County Lines
Detective Superintendent Dan Mitchell, who leads the national county lines coordination centre, reaffirmed the police’s dedication to tackling this pressing issue. As the tactics of county lines gangs evolve, law enforcement strategies must adapt accordingly. The commitment to pursuing high-harm operations and protecting vulnerable individuals remains a top priority for police forces nationwide.
Why it Matters
The increasing identification of girls as victims in county lines exploitation is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. As awareness grows, so too must the response from services and law enforcement. Recognising the unique challenges faced by young women in these scenarios is essential to developing effective support systems. Failure to address these complexities not only endangers lives but also perpetuates cycles of trauma and exploitation. It is imperative that society prioritises a holistic approach to safeguarding all vulnerable individuals, ensuring that no one is overlooked in the fight against these heinous crimes.
