Some gangs are involved in crime, drugs, violence and other illegal activities. If you're part of a gang like this it can be dangerous.
It can also mean being:
- controlled by older members of the gang
- given money or things you like but this could easily change and you might be treated differently
- threatened or forced to do things you don't want to do
- worried about your safety and the safety of your family or friends
- worried about fights with other gangs.
It is important to think about your future and how being in a gang can affect your life. For example, not being able to finish school or college, not being able to get a job and not being able to ever feel safe.
If you want to report a crime or talk about something illegal that has happened, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. You can also talk to a Childline counsellor in private at any time.