Every year, thousands of children across the UK are groomed into county lines gangs, while growing numbers of school exclusions leave vulnerable teenagers without the structure and support they need.

In this episode of Care Visions Family Talk, host Lucy Johnston speaks with Baroness Anne Longfield, Chair of the Commission on Young Lives and former Children’s Commissioner for England. Together, they explore why children in care and those excluded from school are at greater risk of exploitation — and what carers, foster carers and parents can do to keep them safe.

Baroness Longfield shares practical advice on:

• Spotting the warning signs of grooming
• Understanding why exclusions can be a tipping point
• What urgent reforms are needed to protect vulnerable teenagers
• Real stories of carers who acted — and changed a child’s future

If you’re a foster carer, parent, kinship carer or professional working with young people, this is a must-listen conversation on how we can all play a part in safeguarding children.

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About the Host

Lucy Johnston is an award-winning journalist and broadcaster with a long-standing commitment to social affairs, health, and children’s welfare. She is currently Health and Social Affairs Editor at The Sunday Express.

About the Guest

Baroness Anne Longfield is Executive Chair and Founder of the Centre for Young Lives, and former Children’s Commissioner for England. She is a passionate advocate for children, with four decades of experience shaping policy to protect the most vulnerable.