SafeCall: The truth about young people going missing – and the myths we must stop believing
It is reported that a child goes missing every two and a half minutes in the UK. The reasons are complex, but the risks can be serious.
Myths about what to do when a child goes missing persist and can delay critical action when it is needed most.
Independent and charity Missing People are aiming to raise £165,000 to launch SafeCall, a free new service that will help the 70,000 children reported missing each year find support and safety no matter what.
donate Here or text SAFE to 70577 to donate £10 to Missing People, enough for one child to get help.
Paul Joseph, head of the Missing People helpline, speaks out Independent About the most common myths and misconceptions about child disappearance and what to do in this situation.
It’s true: If you’re lost there’s always someone to talk to
If you’re lost and can’t talk to your family, school, or police, organizations like Missing People can help. “Don’t feel like you’re alone because there are people you can talk to,” says Joseph. The charity can forward a message to your family or police or set up a three-way call so you can talk safely and anonymously.
Myth: You must wait 24 hours before reporting someone missing
You don’t have to wait a full day to report a child missing; The police will take action immediately. The so-called “24-hour rule” is one of the most dangerous myths. If someone’s whereabouts are unknown or you believe they are at risk, you should call the police immediately.
Former Metropolitan Police chief Parm Sandhu says early intervention is critical. “The belief that you just have to wait a day is one of the most damaging and dangerous myths,” he says. Approximately 80 percent of missing children are found within 24 hours, but these first minutes can be decisive.
Myth: Lost children are safe if they choose to be separated
Even if a child seems lost on his own, he may still be in danger. Many are affected by mental health problems, unhappiness or exploitation at home or in care.
“It’s important to look at why a child went missing,” says Sandhu. “No parent or guardian should feel responsible; the important thing is to be there to support that child through a difficult time.”
Myth: Getting lost is a crime
Getting lost is not a crime. Police and other professionals are there to find the child and take him to safety; Their health is always a priority.
Myth: You shouldn’t report a child missing if it would embarrass them
Sometimes people are hesitant to report someone missing for fear of overreacting or causing embarrassment. “They don’t want everyone looking for them if it causes unwanted attention,” Joseph explains.
But safety must come first; The child will not get into trouble. Always report their losses.
Correct: Police report required
Only the police can officially file a missing person report and initiate an investigation. Missing Persons can advise you on next steps, but if someone is missing contact the police immediately.
Myth: You should call before contacting the police
You don’t need to do an extensive search before calling the police, and you should never put yourself at risk by doing so. Officers prefer to be warned early rather than too late.
Myth: It’s okay if someone disappears frequently
When children get lost again and again, there is a danger that their behavior will begin to seem routine. Almost two-thirds of all missing incidents involving children in 2023-24 were repeat incidents.
“People may start to assume that previously lost young people, especially those in the care system, are just doing what they have always done,” says Joseph. “But when someone goes missing they may still be at risk.”
Please donate now To the Independent and Missing Persons’ Safe Call campaign, which aims to raise £165,000 to create a free, nationwide service to help vulnerable children find safety and support.
If you or a loved one is lost, text or call the charity Missing People on 116 000 for advice, support and options. It’s free, confidential and non-judgmental. Or visit www.missingpeople.org.uk/get-help
