Dispersal at Closing Time (Licensed Premises)

County lines and drug exploitation are serious safeguarding issues affecting communities across the UK. Children, young people and vulnerable adults can be exploited by organised criminal networks to transport drugs or money, often through fear, coercion or manipulation. Licensed premises can sometimes be places where exploited individuals are encountered, particularly during late‑night trading hours or in busy, public environments. While staff are not expected to investigate criminal activity, awareness of the warning signs is critical. This short CPD course is designed to raise awareness of county lines and drug exploitation, explain how it may present in and around licensed premises, and clarify what staff should do if they have concerns — without putting themselves at risk.

By completing this course, learners will gain practical knowledge on: What “county lines” and drug exploitation mean How exploitation can affect children and vulnerable adults Why licensed premises may encounter exploited individuals Common warning signs and indicators to look out for Vulnerability and risk factors The role of staff and professional boundaries What staff should never do How and when to report concerns safely Why recording concerns supports safeguarding and due diligence

County lines exploitation is a national safeguarding priority Licensed premises staff are often well placed to notice early warning signs Awareness helps protect vulnerable people without placing staff at risk Demonstrates responsible management and due diligence Supports the prevention of crime and disorder Aligns with safeguarding expectations of police and licensing authorities This is awareness‑level training — staff are not expected to intervene or confront individuals.

This course is suitable for: Bar and front‑of‑house staff Door staff and supervisors Managers and licence holders Anyone working in licensed or late‑night premises No previous safeguarding or drugs awareness training is required.

On successful completion of this course, learners are awarded a CPD‑recognised certificate. The certificate provides formal evidence of continuing professional development and can be retained for individual CPD records, staff training files, or inspection purposes. This activity equates to 0.25 CPD hours. Certificates are available to download immediately after achieving the required pass mark in the end‑of‑course assessment.