A: The issues regarding children running away from care are complex and need very sensitive handling. One of the first things I would do is to sit down with the girl and explore with her why she has started absconding. There might be issues with the placement, such as problems with other children in the home, her not feeling included or that she belongs there, or that she can't talk to her carer and therefore is seeking support via others. Or it might just be that she is rebelling against her situation.
Many children will abscond for what they perceive will be a bit of fun, or because they are being persuaded to by others who are looked after. It can start off as being a bit of a game, but can end up being anything but - the risks involved are huge.
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