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Legacy of Missing People: Supporting Families Since 1993

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mary Asprey and Janet Newman founded the National Missing Persons Helpline, now Missing People, to support families of missing individuals.
Their initiative began after the disappearance of a family friend in 1986.
The charity was established in 1993.
It has since provided support to thousands affected by disappearances and aims to expand services amid rising suicide rates.
The founders passed away in 2016 and 2021, leaving a lasting legacy.

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Story summary

Mary Asprey and Janet Newman founded the National Missing Persons Helpline, now Missing People, to support families of missing individuals.
Their initiative began after the disappearance of a family friend in 1986.
The charity was established in 1993.
It has since provided support to thousands affected by disappearances and aims to expand services amid rising suicide rates.
The founders passed away in 2016 and 2021, leaving a lasting legacy.