Understanding Missing Children: Facts vs. Myths

Published: 12 November 2025 | The English Chronicle Desk | The English Chronicle Online

Every two and a half minutes, a child is reported missing in the UK, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and action. The reasons children disappear are complex, ranging from running away to abduction, but the risks they face can be serious and, in some cases, life-threatening.

Despite this, widespread myths and misconceptions about what to do when a child goes missing continue to persist. These misunderstandings can delay vital responses, prevent timely interventions, and exacerbate the trauma experienced by children and their families. Misguided beliefs, such as assuming children will return home shortly or that waiting 24 hours is acceptable before reporting, can hinder authorities’ efforts to locate them safely.

The Independent, in collaboration with the charity Missing People, has launched the SafeCall campaign to tackle these myths and offer support. SafeCall is a free service designed to help the 70,000 children reported missing each year in the UK receive guidance, reassurance, and access to critical resources. The campaign aims to raise £165,000 to provide this support to those in need. Donations can be made directly to Missing People, with £10 being sufficient to assist one child.

Paul Joseph, head of helplines at Missing People, stresses the importance of immediate action and public understanding. He urges parents, caregivers, and communities to recognize that every missing child’s situation is unique, and prompt, informed action can be the difference between safety and harm.

Through initiatives like SafeCall, the campaign seeks not only to support missing children but also to educate the public, dispelling harmful myths and emphasizing the urgency of reporting and responding appropriately. By fostering awareness and providing accessible resources, SafeCall hopes to ensure that missing children can be located swiftly and safely, while families receive the guidance and reassurance they desperately need.