Today, we announce the launch of SafeCall, alongside The Independent. SafeCall is a new free and confidential support service for children and young people up to 25 who feel unsafe, are at risk of going missing or being exploited, or don’t know where to turn.
SafeCall is a response to these shocking facts: a child is reported missing every 2.5 minutes in the UK, totalling around 210,000 incidents each year. These cases affect more than 430,000 people annually, and 48 children died while missing in 2023–24. Currently, Missing People reaches only one in four missing children, prompting the creation of SafeCall to expand support.
SafeCall offers a safe, non-judgemental space to talk, with trained advisers providing practical support – from finding somewhere safe to stay to reconnecting with family or accessing local help. Young people can contact SafeCall daily via the free 116 000 helpline or online chat, with WhatsApp and chatbot support launching later this year.
“We’re delighted that SafeCall is now live, just two months after fundraising began. The groundbreaking service will mean that young people who are thinking about leaving home – or who already have done so – can receive immediate help to get them to a safe space, reuniting and rebuilding families. To everyone who has been part of this – our readers, supporters and the young people who helped to create SafeCall – thank you. Together, we’ve created a lasting legacy – one which will save lives every year.”
Geordie Greig, Editor-in-Chief of The Independent
The service is designed for any young person who feels vulnerable or unsafe, including those experiencing exploitation, family conflict, housing insecurity or mental health concerns. By offering early support, SafeCall helps young people make safer choices before harm escalates.
“SafeCall has been shaped by participation every step of the way – from sessions across the UK with young people with lived experience, to working closely with our Young Advisors and Services colleagues who support young people every day. Bringing these voices together has helped create a service that is grounded in real needs and real lives. We’re incredibly proud of what’s been built, and of the collective effort behind it. SafeCall shows what’s possible when charities and young people come together to create something that will have a lasting impact.”
Victoria Zabci, Head of Marketing at Missing People
The service has also been backed by Sir Keir Starmer, who hailed the campaign, saying: “Every child deserves safety and support, which is why this initiative, designed by young people with young people in mind, is so important. I commend all those working to make this service a reality and urge those who can to consider supporting this cause.”
“SafeCall is first and foremost about safety. It exists to support young people at moments when things feel uncertain, overwhelming or unsafe, and to help them find a way forward before problems escalate. SafeCall offers a trusted space where young people can talk openly, ask questions and be taken seriously, without fear or judgement. When choices feel confusing and support feels out of reach, SafeCall provides reassurance, practical help and a clear route to safety.”
Paul Joseph, Head of Helplines and Reconnections at Missing People
The launch has been made possible thanks to The Independent’s campaign, alongside support from Lippincott, Wildish & Co, Players of People’s Postcode Lottery, BBC Children in Need and St. James’s Place Charitable Foundation.
SafeCall is now live, with Missing People aiming to reach more young people than ever before and reduce the number of children who go missing or come to harm.
Visit the SafeCall website below to learn more about the service.
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