Violence Reduction Unit: New County Lines & Serious Youth Violence Film

Produced by Meerkat Films, in collaboration with Northern Stage, the latest resource from the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit is part of its ongoing work to address the root causes of serious violence and improve the lives of young and vulnerable people.

Featuring local people, accents, and even a local school, the film is designed to raise awareness and empower young people to make safe and informed choices. The gripping and realistic portrayal highlights how young people can be drawn into dangerous criminal networks, reflecting the devastating realities of County Lines.

County Lines refers to the practice of criminal gangs exploiting vulnerable young people to transport and sell illegal drugs across different areas, often using coercion, threats and violence.

Click here to watch the County Lines awareness film.

For more about the Northumbria Violence Reduction Unit, email vru@northumbria-pcc.gov.uk.

Violence Reduction Unit in partnership with Newcastle City Council Children’s Social Care are also offering Knife Crime Awareness training for practitioners across Newcastle in March and November 2025 – click here for more information,