A CLACTON-based charity dedicated to helping youngsters stay out of trouble came to the aid of a child who was being exploited by a county lines drug gang.

The UTurn project was set up in 2019 to offer confidential information and help to young people experiencing personal and socially challenging life situations, including those at risk of becoming involved with drug gangs.

High Sheriff of Essex Simon Brice, who visited the charity's Impact X programme at Clacton Coastal Academy last week, praised the project after hearing how it has helped a young woman who had become the victim of child exploitation.

Tania Swanson, one of the charity's directors, said, “Despite the challenges that our young people face, we have many that display exceptional resilience and a notable determination to change their behaviours, develop and grow.

"Examples of this is evident in the case of a 16-year-old young lady that formed part of our Impact X group and Archie Lingen, a student that joined us from an extended learning provision at Clacton Coastal Academy.

“The young lady was from a stable family unit with no prior individual or familial involvement with the police, judicial or social services.

"However, she had a history mental health issues relating to anxiety and low self-esteem and has undergone various therapeutic treatments for these conditions.

"She had trouble forming meaningful relationships with her peers which had a further detriment to her confidence and resilience.

"Due to these vulnerabilities, she developed attachments with an older group of individuals which were all entrenched in county lines and gang-related activities.

"This culminated in her becoming a victim of child sexual exploitation, and subsequently being referred into our services.

"But since joining the organisation’s mentoring and support project, she has shown a considerable increase in confidence and motivation.

"She is enthusiastic to take part in therapeutic activities and shows a keen interest in becoming a peer mentor.”

UTurn has also been working in partnership with Essex Police, the NHS, schools and other support organisations, to deliver the UTurn Hub, a youth project aimed at reducing violence, victimisation and offending in young people aged 12 to 16.

The hub provides informal support sessions to improve and build young people’s social and emotional wellbeing.

Shani Jackson, from UTurn, added: "Each year, the High Sheriff gives financial support and recognition to voluntary organisations for initiatives that are helping communities thrive in their local area.

"The pilot for the UTurn Hub was additionally supported by the Essex Community Foundation and the charity was selected and subsequently was awarded The High Sheriff of Essex fund for a second year.

"This award was presented to us in recognition and appreciation of the residents and people of Essex for activity and contribution in enhancing the life of the community, and we are extremely grateful for the support and our achievements this year.”

In addition to UTurn’s award, a special certificate of achievement was awarded to a Clacton Coastal Academy student Archie Lingen in recognition of outstanding learning and behaviour.

Mr Brice, who presented Archie with his award, also praised Tania and Shani for their initiatives to help young people.

"It is good to see how well you are supporting young people in Tendring area," he said.

If you would like more information about UTurn, email info@uturn4support.co.uk.