The fast food chain Chicken Cottage is to train more than 100 of its staff across London to spot signs of exploitation among its teenage customers.

The Children's Society, which is leading the project, said it believed criminals were sometimes targeting children at fast food chains to lead them into drug crime, money laundering or sexual activities.

Most of the chain's branches are in London but there also some in Leeds and Greater Manchester.

Azam Hanipah, finance manager for Chicken Cottage, said the aim was to "create lasting change and inspire action" and ensure they created "safe spaces" for young people.

Create safe spaces

Mark Russell, chief executive officer at the Children's Society, said: "Right now, thousands of children across the UK are at risk of exploitation and they need our help, which is why this partnership isn't just about training for staff – it's also about communities working together and stepping in.

"Chicken Cottage's reach gives us the opportunity to alert thousands more people to the importance of keeping teenagers safe from exploitation."

Vulnerable teenagers, the charity added, were at risk of being lured by non-existent job offers, cash incentives and "fake friendships".

Staff will be trained to spot concerning behaviour such as youngsters travelling alone, or appearing anxious or under the control of older individuals.

The initiative builds on a previous project to encourage hotel managers to look out for and report signs of abuse and trafficking.

In 2019, chicken boxes featuring warnings about the dangers of carrying a knife were used in Chicken Cottage, Dixy Chicken and Morley's.

Real-life stories of young people who chose positive activities over carrying a weapon were printed inside the boxes.

The initiative was criticised by some as being offensive and an example of racial stereotyping.