2026 Scams Prevention Programme

Kent County Council Trading Standards and Community Wardens are offering free educational sessions for students aged 13 to 18 as part of a new Youth Scam and Financial Exploitation Prevention Programme, funded through the Kent Community Safety Partnership Crime Reduction Grant.

Recent research found that 46% of 8 to 17-year-olds have been scammed online, while 79% encounter online scams at least once a month. Young people are increasingly being targeted through social media, messaging platforms, fake job offers and "easy money" schemes.

To help address these risks, Trading Standards Safeguarding Officers and Community Wardens are delivering one-hour sessions that help young people:

• Recognise scam and financial exploitation tactics
• Understand money mule recruitment and online grooming
• Spot warning signs and protect themselves online
• Know where to seek trusted advice and support.

Sessions are free of charge and can be delivered to assemblies, year groups or smaller targeted audiences.

If your organisation would be interested in hosting a session, please complete this form

A member of the delivery team will then contact you to discuss suitable dates and arrangements.