NEW PARENT HELPLINE NOW AVAILABLE – if you are worried about your child, please contact this helpline. Call 08003893899
Dedicated Parent Helpline
0800 389 3899
We are excited to announce that our new helpline is now live! Offering free, 1-to-1 support for parents and carers across the South West who are concerned that their child may be at risk of criminal or sexual exploitation. The helpline provides parents and carers a place to go to for confidential guidance to help you recognise the signs of exploitation, understand your options, and take steps to protect your child. Please call 0800 389 3899 to get in touch with our team today.
When will the helpline be available ?
The helpline will be available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am – 1pm, with plans to expand these hours in the near future. Whether you’re looking for advice, resources, or just someone to talk to, our trained team are here to help you navigate this difficult time. To contact us on our helpline, please call 0800 389 3899.
What is the Parent Helpline?
Our Helpline is a free, 1-to-1 support service for parents and carers across the South West who are concerned that their child may be at risk of criminal or sexual exploitation. Are you’re seeing signs like:
- Unexplained money or gifts
- A sudden change in mood or behaviour
- Staying out late or being secretive
- Hanging out with new or older friends
- Increased time online or on social media
We can talk it through with you, without judgement.
Worried about your child? You’re not alone, and we’re here to help.
If you’re feeling concerned about your child’s behaviour, friendships, or safety, trust your instincts. Whether it’s a small worry or something more serious, Escapeline’s free and confidential Parent Helpline is here to listen, support, and guide you.
No concern is too small. You know your child best. If something feels off – even if you can’t quite put your finger on it – we’re here to help you talk it through.
Help Line Availability
Our helpline is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10am – 1pm, with plans to expand soon. You will be able to reach us on 0800 389 3899 during this time. For immediate concerns, please get in touch.
Recognising the Signs of Exploitation
You might be seeing changes in your child that worry you, but you’re unsure if they mean something serious. Here are some common signs of child exploitation to look out for:
- Sudden mood changes, anger, or withdrawal
- Unexplained gifts, clothes, or money
- Staying out unusually late or going missing
- Being secretive about phone use or online activity
- Talking about things that seem out of character
Even if you’re unsure, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Speaking to someone early can make a huge difference.
Helpline - We can contact you
If you’d prefer for us to get in touch with you, please fill out the form below and we will be in touch to discuss your concerns, For immediate concerns or any other enquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us on enquiries@escapeline.org.uk or call 07707 897 008.
Helpline News
About Escapeline
Escapeline is a charity working to prevent the exploitation of children and young people by gangs across South West England.
We support parents, carers, and communities by:
- Educating young people about grooming and exploitation, and how to stay safe
- Raising awareness in schools, communities, and onlineange in mood or behaviour
- Providing mentoring and support to young people at risk
- Supporting families with compassion and without judgement
Thousands of young people have been affected by County Lines – a form of exploitation where urban gangs recruit children to traffic drugs in rural areas. This isn’t just happening in big cities – it’s happening in small towns across the South West.
We’re here to protect young people and empower the people who love them.