Leo Powell educates Nescot students on the dangers of county lines

Leo Powell, UK’s leading independent county lines educator, visited Nescot this week (16.04.24) to speak to students and staff about the warning signs of county lines and how to stay safe. His talk is the latest in the series of ‘NES Talks’ (Nescot Educational Seminars) to encourage and motivate our learners.

Leo’s talks are designed to educate and safeguard young people, equipping them with the tools they need to stay away from gangs, grooming and exploitation. Over 400 students from various curriculum areas, including construction, media, music, health and social care, hair and beauty, sport, travel and tourism, filled the college’s Adrian Mann Theatre to listen to his practical advice and guidance on county lines.

During his talk, Leo covered various topics such as how to identify and avoid grooming, the risks and consequences of getting involved in county lines, and how to seek help if they or someone they know is being targeted. By providing this knowledge, Leo hopes to empower young people to make informed choices and resist the pressures of criminal gangs.

County lines is a form of drug trafficking where criminal gangs from urban areas use vulnerable young people to transport and sell drugs in smaller towns and rural areas. Leo has delivered talks to educate young people about the dangers of this criminal activity to thousands of students across the UK, ranging from primary schools to secondary schools and colleges. Find out more here.

Lisa Moynihan, Assistant Principal, Learning Support & Student Experience at Nescot said: “We are very grateful to Leo for giving our students an understanding of the dangers of county lines. His message struck a chord with students and staff alike. There has been lots of positive feedback from the event; it raised further awareness and provided students with the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe and make informed choices.”

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