A NEW scheme looking to address grooming of children and vulnerable adults has been started by the police.

Officers are aiming to crack down on groups which are trafficking people around local areas as part of drug-selling operations. These people can often be moved to a new area in which they have no links or connections.

In a statement, GMP said: "Victims could also be criminally exploited and forced to carry out other crimes such as arson, violent offences, criminal damage, assault or robbery. They could also be forced to store firearms or money.

Offenders groom, threaten, force or trick victims into carrying out their crimes. If the victim doesn’t comply the offender may use violence, or threaten the victim’s family to ensure they get what they want.

Gifts may be given to the victim as a reward to keep them on side which leads them to becoming trapped in a spiral of intimidation, fear and debt."

Some signs that a person may be trapped include absences from school or declining results; new clothing, accessories or money which is unaccounted for; and travel to areas where the person has no obvious connections.

The police also warned to keep an eye for youths or vulnerable adults who are receiving excessive amounts of texts or phone calls, carrying weapons, self-harming, or entering into relationships with controlling or older individuals or groups.

Find more at: www.programmechallenger.co.uk/Trapped

Anyone with concerns either about themselves or somebody else should contact GMP via the Live Chat facility on www.gmp.police.uk or 101 in a non-emergency situation.

You can also report details anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.