Too often, practitioners view girls through a single lens of sexual exploitation, overlooking the wider roles they may hold - from messengers and recruiters to enforcers, holders of drugs, or victims of violence.

This session will examine the culture that surrounds girls in gangs, how this evolves, and why it keeps their needs hidden. Using real-world case examples, group discussion, and reflective activities, the session equips practitioners to recognise early warning signs, challenge assumptions, and strengthen their safeguarding responses.

Expect a fast-paced, thought-provoking, and educational experience that blends lived expertise with practical tools - ensuring participants leave with greater awareness and confidence in practice.

Learning objectives

• Define adultification bias and explain how it affects professional perceptions and safeguarding responses to young girls
• Recognise the diverse roles girls may hold within gangs, beyond sexual exploitation, and the risks attached to each
• Analyse the cultural dynamics that shape and sustain girls’ involvement in gangs, including loyalty, silence, and social pressures
• Identify early warning signs of involvement that are often minimised or misinterpreted due to adultification
• Apply practical strategies to challenge assumptions, avoid victim-blaming, and strengthen safeguarding practice

This session will be led by Junior Smart.