Launch of SafeCall: A Lifeline for Missing Children

The SafeCall initiative, a collaboration between The Independent and the charity Missing People, aims to provide a dedicated support service for young individuals in crisis. Funded by players of the People’s Postcode Lottery, this free, round-the-clock service is designed to assist the estimated 70,000 children reported missing each year in the UK. The project was co-designed and piloted by young people themselves, ensuring that the support offered is relevant and effective for today’s youth.

The Independent

The concept for SafeCall emerged over a decade ago when a group of young survivors of exploitation expressed to Dame Esther Rantzen, founder of Childline, the lack of tailored support available for them. Recognizing the connection between exploitation and children going missing, Rantzen reached out to Missing People to develop a solution. This led to the establishment of SafeCall, which has since undergone extensive co-production involving young advisers who have personal experiences related to the issues at hand.

The Independent

The initiative seeks to raise £165,000 to fully fund the service, which aims to expand its reach beyond the current capacity of assisting one in four missing children. Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, emphasized the importance of empowering young people in the design process, stating, “It’s fantastic that support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery has helped Missing People identify the need for such an important change for vulnerable young people.”

The Independent

While the initiative has garnered support, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to meet the needs of all vulnerable children. Critics argue that without sustained financial backing, the service may struggle to achieve its ambitious goals. The challenge remains to ensure that SafeCall can effectively reach and support the large number of children reported missing annually.

The Independent

The Independent has actively supported the SafeCall campaign, highlighting the urgent need for a service that addresses the unique challenges faced by young people at risk. The campaign aims to raise awareness and funds to ensure that SafeCall can operate effectively across the UK.

The Independent

• “Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said: “It’s fantastic that support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery has helped Missing People identify the need for such an important change for vulnerable young people – and, crucially, empowering young people to lead in designing the solution.” — Laura Chow, Head of Charities, People’s Postcode Lottery

The Independent

• “The idea for SafeCall was sparked a decade ago when a group of young survivors of exploitation told Esther Rantzen, founder of Childline, that they did not know of any tailored support for them.” — The Independent

The Independent

The SafeCall initiative is currently in the fundraising phase, with a goal to launch the service as soon as sufficient funds are secured. The campaign encourages public donations to help ensure that vulnerable children can access the support they need in times of crisis.

The Independent