Way In, Way Out

The primary aim of the training is to equip youth workers with a structured, sensitive approach to discussing difficult topics such as criminal exploitation and street safety. 

By prompting reflection and conversation, the 'Way In, Way Out' resource helps young people identify risks, recognise trustworthy adults, and consider their own safety strategies. It also supports youth workers in documenting conversations and outcomes, contributing to safer and more informed youth work practice. 

All individuals and teams must complete the online training course prior to receiving the resource. This training is delivered over two online sessions, each lasting two hours.

Session one

Welcome and Introduction 

• Children & Youth and Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery Department collaboration
• Background, importance and context to the training and resource 

Understanding Criminal Exploitation

• An understanding of exploitation and county lines
• Slang dictionary – language and definitions
• Knowing how county lines can potentially affect young people from our community
• Understanding county lines gang involvement
• Knowing who is most at risk and spotting the signs
• Knowing how to respond and manage the risk safely
• Cycle of change 

Session two

Recap

• Welcome back
• Recap of learning from session one and chance to share thoughts

The ‘Way In, Way Out’ card resource 

• Introduction to the card resource
• The wider goal for the 'Way In, Way Out' initiative – goals and expected outcomes
• Practical guidance on how to use the resource effectively in street-based youth work
• Breakout rooms – real life scenarios
• The ‘Way Out’ – more than just a contact card

Safeguarding and Disclosures 

• Best practice for safeguarding children and young people
• How to handle disclosures of exploitation
• Legal and ethical considerations
• Support and referral pathways

Recording Outcomes

• Data capture via QR code
• The data we want to capture
• Why are we capturing information

Q&A  

• Open floor for questions and discussions

Closing  

• Summary of key points covered
• Information on further support and resources
• Contact details for follow-up questions and support

This resource was developed through conversations with street-based youth workers who identified concerns about young people being targeted for exploitation within their communities. 

They highlighted the need for a tool or resource that could help initiate conversations with young people about these concerns in street-based settings, while offering a supported pathway out for those at risk.

The cards were piloted in four locations across the UK within established Salvation Army detached youth work teams. After careful consultation with the Addictions Department and the Safeguarding Department, the cards were finalised and produced.

The resource cards cover four themes:

• Local space: A ‘way in’ to the conversation by finding out more about the young people and the communities in which they live.
• Self and safety: Are the streets and locations young people spend their time safe? What are the potential risks? How can they prevent these risks?
• Alert: Used to facilitate a more in-depth and focused conversation about the risks of exploitation as appropriate.
• Way Out: To discuss the people and organisations who can help support them if they feel they or their friends are at risk of exploitation. This card can be personalised and handed out to young people. 

Please register for the 'Way In, Way Out' course via the online booking form.

For more information or to enquire about training, please email childrenyouth@salvationarmy.org.uk or atms@salvationarmy.org.uk.