Kieran was 15 when he was first asked to ‘hold a phone’ for someone older. At the time, he didn’t feel like it would be dangerous – it felt like a way to belong and earn quick money. Within weeks, he was being sent hundreds of miles from home, dropped in towns he’d never been to, with no way back unless he did what he was told.
Kieran was forced to stay in crack houses – places that smelled of smoke and fear, where strangers came and went at all hours. He slept on floors, barely slept at all, and was constantly on edge. He was told that if he left, if he spoke to anyone, or if he lost money, there would be consequences. He was threatened with violence and told they knew where his family lived.
He went missing repeatedly. Each time, the distance from home felt wider – not just physically, but emotionally. Kieran was terrified, ashamed, and convinced no one could help him without making things worse. He felt trapped, exhausted, and invisible.
How Keiran got out
Kieran needed a safe, confidential place to talk before fear took control – someone to help him understand that he wasn’t to blame, that he had options, and that support existed. Early intervention could have stopped the exploitation before it escalated and helped bring him back to safety.
Kieran is now in regular contact with the our team. He has shared that while he is still afraid and continues to see some of the people he was involved with, he feels more confident in saying no. The ongoing check-ins and consistent support have helped keep him safe and away from those who were exploiting him.
Support is here for you
If you’re being forced to do things you don’t feel comfortable with, we are here for you. SafeCall can be there – to listen, and find a path forwards. Get in touch today.
