What should apprentices be aware of?

Travelling safely

Many apprentices travel between home, work and training, sometimes early in the morning or later in the evening.

Plan your journey in advance, keep your phone charged and let someone know if your plans change. If you use public transport, wait in well-lit areas and check the last bus or train times before travelling.

In rural areas, transport can be limited. Make sure you have a backup plan and never accept a lift if you feel uncomfortable or unsure.

County lines and criminal exploitation

County lines is a form of criminal exploitation in which individuals—often young people or vulnerable adults—are pressured, manipulated or threatened into transporting drugs, money or other items.

Warning signs may include:

• Receiving unexplained money, gifts or new belongings
• Travelling to unfamiliar places without a clear reason
• Becoming secretive or regularly going missing

Exploitation is never the victim’s fault. If something does not feel right, speak to someone you trust as soon as possible.

Online safety, scams and misinformation

Online risks can affect anyone. Be cautious about unexpected messages, job offers, requests for money or people asking for personal information.

Never share passwords, banking details or private images. Check that job opportunities and training offers are genuine before providing information. Be particularly careful if someone pressures you to act quickly or keep a conversation secret.

You should also consider what you post online. Information about your workplace, location or daily routine could be seen by people you did not intend to share it with.

Nights out, festivals and busy public places

Devon, Dorset and Somerset have vibrant towns, cities, festivals and visitor destinations. When going out:

• Stay with people you trust
• Agree how you will get home
• Keep drinks with you and do not accept an open drink from someone you do not know
• Look out for your friends
• Leave a situation if it does not feel right
• Ask venue staff, security personnel or the police for help when needed

Always call 999 if somebody is in immediate danger.

Coast, countryside and water safety

Our region has beautiful beaches, rivers, countryside and coastal paths, but conditions can change quickly.

Check the weather, tides and local safety information before setting out. Follow warning signs, use recognised routes and avoid swimming in unsafe or unfamiliar water. Tell someone where you are going, particularly if walking, cycling or visiting an isolated location.

Who can you talk to?

If you have a concern about yourself, another apprentice or something happening in your community, you can speak to:

• Your Swatpro tutor
• Your workplace manager or mentor
• Swatpro’s Designated Safeguarding Lead
• Another member of staff you trust

You do not need to be certain that something is wrong before raising a concern. We will listen, take you seriously and help you access the right support.

For immediate danger, call 999. For a non-emergency police matter, call 101. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Trust your instincts

Sometimes a situation may simply feel wrong. You may notice a change in a friend or colleague, feel pressured by another person or become worried about something you have seen online.

Do not ignore that feeling. Speaking up early can prevent a situation from becoming more serious.

At Swatpro, your safety and wellbeing matter. Support is available throughout your apprenticeship, and asking for help will never be seen as a weakness. If you are worried about anything, please talk to us. info@swatpro.org.uk