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The eight-page booklet details practical steps parents and carers can take if they suspect their child may be involved with gangs and who to contact for help and support. It was developed with the help of the Association of Chief Police Officers, local authorities, parenting organisations like the Family and Parenting Institute and community groups such as Mothers Against Violence.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: "All parents worry about keeping their children safe - and need support to help them to do it. They need to know how to spot if their child is involved in a gang and where to turn if they are concerned. We have worked with police, local authorities and parenting and community groups to make sure the booklet is a useful addition in the fight against violent crime."

The 'Gangs: You and Your Child' booklet is available on the Directgov website and 30,000 copies are initially being distributed in the areas involved in the Tackling Gangs Action Programme - London, Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham.

Further information

• Gangs and gang crime: advice for parents