The truth – and the myths – about missing young people

The Independent separates fact from fiction as part of our push to launch SafeCall with the charity Missing People

- HARRIETTE BOUCHER

Every two and a half minutes, a child is reported missing in the UK. The reasons are complex, but the risks can be grave. Myths about what to do when a child goes missing persist - and can delay crucial action at the moment it's most needed.

The Independent and the charity Missing People are aiming to raise £165,000 to launch SafeCall, a free new service to help the 70,000 children reported missing each year find support and safety, no matter what.

Paul Joseph, head of helplines at Missing People, speaks to The Independent about the most common myths and misunderstandings around missing children - and what to do when it happens.

True: if you are missing, there is always somebody to talk to

If you’ve gone missing and don’t feel able to speak with your family, school or the police, organisations like Missing People can help. “Don’t feel like you’re on your own, because there are people you can talk to,” says Joseph. The charity can pass messages to family or police, or arrange a three-way call so you can speak safely and anonymously.

False: you have to wait 24 hours before reporting someone missing