Surrey young people encouraged to ‘be fearless’ by speaking up 100% anonymously about neglect and crime

Fearless, the youth service of our charity, has launched a new campaign today to encourage young people in Surrey to ‘be fearless’ this summer by speaking up 100% anonymously about harm, neglect and crime.

An Advan will be visiting different locations throughout the county this week to promote the message that young people need to look out for their friends over the holiday period and that crime information can be given 100% anonymously via Fearless.org.

The Advan will show short awareness films on Knife crime, Hate crime and County Lines and explain how young people can report crime without revealing their identity. The campaign will continue online throughout the holidays on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

The summer holidays can be a time of celebration and fun for most young people in Surrey, but it’s also a time when children and young people don’t have a routine and the watchful eye of teachers or school staff to make sure they’re safe. This can lead to some young people being at increased risk of mistreatment or involvement with crime.

What are the signs of harm and neglect to look out for?

A young person might:

• Seem unclean or hungry
• Seem to be avoiding home
• Be left at home alone for periods of time
• Have unexplained bruises or injuries
• May be withdrawn or depressed
• Tired
• Live with parents/carers who are often drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Confide in you that they are being hurt or forced to do things against their will.

“Friends can be vital in spotting the signs of harm and neglect amongst their peers, but often don’t know what to do to support them or just don’t feel they can get involved.

“Fearless.org provides a safe and anonymous place for young people to tell us when they have concerns about a young person who is at risk of getting into trouble or becoming involved in crime.

“If a young person feels like they are a victim of harm, neglect or crime themselves, we would strongly urge them to speak to a trusted adult, local social services or Childline charity on 0800 1111.”

The Advan campaign will be visiting the following locations:

There will also be outreach activities aimed at 11-16 year olds - to encourage young people to visit our charity’s website, Fearless.org.

Everyone who contacts Fearless stays 100% anonymous - Always.