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Education is the key. Often, just recognising the signs and seeking help, can be a hugely positive step towards changing the course of a young person’s life.

Before you talk to your child about gangs, it helps if you understand a little more about how gangs work and why young people are drawn towards gangs in the first place. The reality of being in a gang is very different from the myths that can be painted of the lifestyle and benefits. There are often warning signs to look out for which could suggest that a young person is actively involved with a gang; these can be as subtle as changes of appearance (especially wearing clothes which are out of character) , using new slang words, hanging out with new friends (who are reluctant to engage with the wider family) and falling out with trusted long-term friends.

There are many things you can do to help prevent a young person getting involved with a gang. The most important thing is to talk to and be open with them and be as involved in their life as possible. A lot of gang activity is co-ordinated behind the scenes using social media or mobile phone, so it is important that you are aware of this and have your own social dialogue too.

We have used our experience and the knowledge of some of the leaders in this area, as well as those who have lived experience of gang life, to put together answers to some of the frequently asked questions we hear which will hopefully give you more background knowledge and therefore, more confidence to discuss these issues with family members and friends.

Visit our frequently asked questions. Alternatively, if you have a question that we haven’t covered on this site, please submit the form below or email us at info@ask-us.org.uk. We will do our best to answer it for you.