The National Missing Persons Helpline charity has launched the UK's first 24-hour helpline for young runaways. This free and confidential service was piloted in December 2003 and took more than 9,000 calls in the first five months.
The helpline can refer callers to local advice centres from a UK-wide database, or put them in touch with statutory agencies if they choose.
A schools pack aimed at tackling the issue of running away is also available.
Trained volunteer workers, also accessible by email, can help young runaways contact their family or carer by setting up a three-way call or sending a message home. Callers are asked to phone back five minutes later to check if the worker has managed to pass the message on, and if there is a message back.
www.runawayhelpline.org
www.missingpersons.org
Telephone 0808 800 70 70.
