North Northamptonshire joins national effort to protect children from scams
Council backs new campaign teaching young people how to identify and report online scams
Last updated 29th Jan 2026
North Northamptonshire Council has partnered with a national campaign to help young people spot and report scams as online fraudsters increasingly target younger age groups.
The initiative, ‘Young Friends Against Scams,’ aims to educate children and teenagers on common scams through either online training sessions or face-to-face workshops. Scams covered in the programme include social media fraud, gaming-related scams, and bogus online offers for goods and services.
According to Ofcom research over 90% of young people have experienced scams online, reinforcing the importance of raising awareness among younger generations.
Councillor Kirk Harrison, Executive Member for Regulatory Services at North Northamptonshire Council, stressed the value of prevention: “Scammers often target young people because of the time they spend online.
''This campaign equips them with the tools to spot scams, protect themselves, and safeguard their families. It creates confidence to talk about scams and raises awareness.”
Participating in the programme
The initiative encourages young people aged 11 and over to sign up for awareness sessions, either online or in person. Participants who complete the training can become accredited as a ‘Friend Against Scams’ and receive certificates for their efforts.
The council is encouraging more schools, youth groups, and sports clubs locally to sign up and take part in helping protect young people from fraud.
Speaking about the programme, Harrison said: ''Anyone working with young people aged 11 and over really are encouraged to sign up to be a 'scam champion'.
“With advances in AI, scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, so understanding scams is crucial.” He added.
As part of their role, young people are encouraged to share their knowledge publicly and help others stay alert to becoming victims of scams.
The wider impact of scams
Scams don’t just cause financial loss but can also lead to anxiety, reduced confidence, and damage to wellbeing for victims.
“Early reporting helps prevent more harm. Scams aren’t just financial crimes; they can destroy trust and independence,” Harrison said.
He highlighted the importance of victims seeking support and added: “Tell a friend, tell your parents, and we can help you.”
''Scams aren't just a problem for older people, young people can be targeted every day online.''
North Northamptonshire Council’s Trading Standards team say it has already made significant efforts in tackling scam activities, recording 66 direct interventions in the last year that uncovered criminal activity.
Further details about the campaign and how to get involved are available online or through North Northamptonshire Council’s website.
Victims of scams and fraud can report it via Report Fraud online or by phone on 0300 123 2040