Blackburn author school visit to teach about drugs and grooming

Christina Gabbitas, patron for Blackburn with Darwen Libraries for Children and Young People, has been working with various police forces to educate children about the signs of grooming, the dangers of getting involved with drugs, county lines and the consequences of carrying knives.

On World Book Day, which coincided with intensification week, the author of No More Knives delivered sessions at St Leonard’s school in Langho as well as other schools in North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and Tyne & Wear.

Christina Gabbitas with Lancashire Police (Image: Christina Gabbitas)

She said: “First and foremost we are educating the children followed by teachers, and furnishing the children with a copy of the story ensures conversations are opened up with parents.

“Unfortunately, some county lines are being run by teenagers who have been groomed and exploited. The teenagers are involving children as young as age nine. I’ve visited schools where year 5 have been part of a county line - it’s heart breaking.

“This is why it is so important that we educate children to recognise the signs of grooming.”

The "No More Knives County Lines" sessions are delivered by Christina and accompanied by PCSOs and PCs.

Christina added: “It’s been brilliant to work with policing teams who have all been very supportive and especially when we open up conversations.”

After the sessions, each child was given a copy of the story to take home to discuss with their parents or carers.

Christina continued: "In my opinion, the best way to get messages across to young people is through the power of storytelling because it makes it more memorable.

"I do think primary school children have been overlooked because they're being exploited from the age of nine."

The author has also been working closely with North Yorkshire Police. Fran Naughton, Detective Superintendent of Crime Operations said: “Christina’s work has been so unique.

"I think most people think about County Lines as an issue that older children can be vulnerable to – but let’s not let it get to that stage.

“The interactive nature of the sessions have made it enjoyable learning for kids and teachers alike.”

Christina added: “I would like to say a huge thank you to all the policing teams I have worked with. I have huge respect for all the work you undertake to help keep our communities safe.”