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120,000 Teens Targeted by Criminals in England and Wales

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) reports that one in nine teenagers in England and Wales have been approached by criminals to engage in illegal activities.
More than a quarter accepted offers, affecting around 120,000 teens.
The survey finds 2.4% of teens identify as gang members, with peer pressure and desire for status as motives.
The YEF advocates focused deterrence, backed by an £8 million Home Office pilot.

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Story summary

The Youth Endowment Fund (YEF) reports that one in nine teenagers in England and Wales have been approached by criminals to engage in illegal activities.
More than a quarter accepted offers, affecting around 120,000 teens.
The survey finds 2.4% of teens identify as gang members, with peer pressure and desire for status as motives.
The YEF advocates focused deterrence, backed by an £8 million Home Office pilot.