Sir David Beckham backs The Independent’s SafeCall campaign to help missing children
Sir David Beckham attended Independent‘s SafeCall campaign to support missing children is calling on the public to donate to a new 24-hour service that will provide help and safety to young people in crisis.
The former England captain wrote to his 88 million Instagram followers: “It’s heartbreaking that 70,000 children go missing every year in the UK. Happy to support.” Independent And Missing People United Kingdom The charity will help launch SafeCall, a new 24-hour lifeline for vulnerable and lost young people to find safety.”
The SafeCall campaign aims to raise £165,000 to fund the free, 24-hour service designed with young people in mind. It will provide advice, guidance and a pathway to safety for children at risk of abuse or harm.
Readers can donate to the SafeCall campaign Here or donate £10 to Missing People by texting SAFE to 70577; This will be enough to help a child get the support they need.
The call follows Sir David’s knighthood at Windsor Castle for his services to football and charity. This honor reflects nearly two decades of humanitarian work through organizations such as Unicef and Malaria No More.
A long-time advocate for child welfare, the 50-year-old founded the 7 Fund with Unicef to support vulnerable young people around the world and has led campaigns on everything from child poverty to global emergencies.
The 50-year-old actor said he was “really humbled and very grateful for this honour” given last week in Windsor.
It was the culmination of an illustrious playing career that brought six Premier League titles, two FA Cups and a Champions League win with Manchester United, followed by stints at Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as years of public service.
Sir David’s backing adds further star power to the venture, which has already received backing from Sir Stephen Fry, Dame Esther Rantzen and Sir Ian Rankin, Britain’s greatest crime novelist.
Sir Stephen described SafeCall as “a beacon of hope for young people who feel lost and unseen”. She said: “Every child deserves the chance to be found, to be safe and to have their voice heard. I’m proud of that.” Independent “He stands with Missing People to make this happen.”
Dame Esther added: “Many young people experiencing exploitation do not feel they can ask for help and be listened to at a time when they are afraid, alone and vulnerable. This new service means there is finally a way for them to seek help with confidence and hope.”
Missing People estimates that around 70,000 children are reported missing each year in the UK. Many disappear repeatedly or due to exploitation, family breakdown or mental health-related issues.
Jo Youle, chief executive of Missing People, said: “Children facing harm or abuse often feel invisible. SafeCall will be shaped by their voices, offering a safe, confidential space where they are heard, supported and protected. Drawing on over 30 years of experience, this new service has been designed by young people to address the challenges they face today. Together we are building a legacy of care, protection and hope. Together we will change young lives.”
Geordie Greig, editor-in-chief IndependentHe said: “I’m incredibly proud to launch this campaign with Missing People. With the help of our readers and supporters we can make a real difference to tackling the crisis of missing children in this country.”
Readers can donate to the SafeCall campaign here or by sending a message. SECURE up to 70577 Giving £10 to Missing People; enough for a child to get the support they need.
If you or a loved one is lost, text or call Missing People for advice, support and options. 116 000. The service is free, confidential and non-judgmental. Or visit www.missingpeople.org.uk/get-help.
