A geography of early vulnerabilities and exploitation in the narratives of adolescent males in England

Abstract

Purpose

The victimisation and criminal involvement of young people in organised criminal groups is a recognised form of child criminal exploitation (CCE) in the UK. Three phases of exploitation were identified (peer influence, adult street-level gangs and organised criminal groups). This paper aims to consider the locations associated with three stages of criminal exploitation and considers implications for safeguarding.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses narratives of adolescent males and those of adults reflecting on their experiences as adolescents who had been immersed in street gangs and organised crime from northern England.

Method

Narratives of criminal action approach, a thematic analysis and multidimensional scaling (smallest space analysis) were undertaken to explore key locations in the planning and commissioning of a crime with at least one other person.

Findings

The narratives revealed that local and regional geographic locations relate to the stages of CCE. They offer an insight into the process of CCE and identify locations that could be used as a risk indicator for police forces and safeguarding teams. A clear pathway from involvement with street-level gangs to direct contact with organised criminal groups was found. This transition was represented by a move from outdoor to indoor locations.

Research limitations/implications

Out of the 30 participants, 29 came from the same region in Northern England, spanning a period of 30 years. It is possible that the findings may be limited to this region, or that there have been changes to criminal structures and opportunities over this time.

Originality/value

Although drug selling and the movement of victims across the UK is central to CCE, comparatively little attention has been given to the locations where early exploitation takes place at a micro level. Practical implications for policing and safeguarding will be discussed.

Citation

Ashton, S.-A. (2025), "A geography of early vulnerabilities and exploitation in the narratives of adolescent males in England", Journal of Criminal Psychology, Vol. 15 No. 1, pp. 55-71. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCP-07-2024-0064