Safeguarding pilot expanded to help 'hidden' girls

A county is to expand its safeguarding programme for vulnerable girls after a pilot project revealed that "too many are being drawn into risk in ways that are almost invisible".

The Girls' Pathway, launched by Northamptonshire's Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner Danielle Stone, found girls were "deliberately targeted" for criminal exploitation because they "attract less suspicion than boys".

Between June and December last year, 49 girls were approached for support having been "identified proactively" by police.

Sophie Branston, from Northamptonshire's Youth Violence Intervention Unit, said the scheme had "led to significantly improved outcomes for many young people and their families".

The scheme will focus on girls who appear low to medium risk of harm who have come to police attention or are linked to males involved in criminality and exploitation.

The six-month pilot found that these girls were being "used", highlighting concerns about hidden grooming and early-stage exploitation.

Branston said: "The pilot shows that girls involved in organised crime are often hidden, with vulnerabilities presenting through mental health issues, antisocial behaviour, or sexual exploitation rather than obvious signs.

"By building trust and listening carefully, we uncover the complex, overlapping risks they face, and my hope is that this pathway ensures girls receive timely, meaningful support that truly meets their needs."

Stone said: "The Girls' Pathway shows what can happen when we identify vulnerability early and wrap support around a child before harm becomes rooted.

"I'm confident this programme will bring real growth, allowing us to reach girls earlier, reduce risk, and build the resilience they need to thrive into adulthood."

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