With the rise of various social media platforms, it has become easier than ever for criminals to reach and entangle young people in criminal networks. Via Snapchat, Telegram, online games, or on the street, young people are approached for criminal tasks such as committing fraud, violence, transporting drugs, or placing explosives. The Talk About It campaign focuses on the significant adults in young peoples lives and what they can do by initiating a conversation.
Danger to the Future of Youth
Young people involved in criminal activities can face not only legal consequences but also serious impacts on their future that they often do not foresee. For example, they may no longer be able to apply for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG), be excluded from certain jobs or education, and even their parents can suffer financially, such as through reductions in benefits.
Concern
Involved organizations are worried about how easily young people are approached via messages for these criminal tasks. This approach was proven effective by research conducted by the parties. The research involved posting messages for such tasks. Within a few days, 50 young people responded. This outcome caused concern and the young people were offered help. The final campaign is based on this research and developed with the help of an expert by experience.
The Role of Adults Around Youth
Significant adults, such as parents, teachers, sports coaches, and other professionals working with youth, play an important role in preventing this issue. A simple conversation, a listening ear, or asking further questions can make the difference between preventing crime and starting a criminal career.
Campaign Focused on Prevention and Support
Therefore, the campaign is launched to raise awareness of this problem. The goal is to make these significant adults around youth aware of the risks, signals, possible consequences, and to help them engage in conversations with young people. This includes providing guidance through an instant experience on social media with references to local support services such as Veilig Thuis, Keerpunt, Youth Work, or the neighborhood police officer.
Talk with young people about what they experience online! A conversation, a listening ear, or asking questions can make a difference. You can help prevent young people from taking the step into crime.
Collaboration for a Safer Future
The campaign is a collaboration between Youth Work Utrecht, Police Central Netherlands, the municipalities of Almere and Utrecht, the Public Prosecution Service, and RIEC Central Netherlands.
For more information and help, parents and those involved can visit the special campaign website.
