I Am a Missing Person

Have you run away?

You might have run away because of a stressful situation, argument, bereavement, unhappiness, depression, abuse, trauma or violence – whatever the reason, please be assured that there is help and a way forward.

Right now, you may not be sure how to get things back to how they used to be, or know how to move forward. You may not feel like it at the moment, but please know that there is help and there are options.

We are here for you if you need us, and there are many organisations out there who can and will help you. You are not alone and you have just made the first brave step by just reading this page. Returning home may not be the right option for you right now and no-one is going to force you in to anything!

Your safety and well-being are the most important things.

Do you think there are people looking for you?
Have you been reported to the police as missing?
Have you seen a poster looking for information?
Are you worried you might be in trouble because you have been missing?

First of all, it is NOT a crime to be missing!

People have reported you as being missing because they want help to find you – not because you are in trouble. The police will not charge you with anything if you are found or if you return home.

If you go to the police, then take any identification you have with you so they can confirm who you are. But don't worry if you do not have anything with you – don’t let that stop you letting them know you are safe.

The police take missing reports seriously because they are worried. They worry that an even more serious crime could have happened to you, and this is why they want to know that you are ok.

Will the police make me return home?

The police can not force you to go home, if your home is not a safe environment.

You should be honest with the police and they will help you. This might be by finding somewhere other than your home for you to stay as well as getting you support.

If you are worried about returning to your home, refuge or care, it is really important that you tell the police why you worry and why you won’t return.

If you are an adult the police will respect your privacy, and if you ask them not to pass on your whereabouts to those looking for you, they will not do so.

Did you know it is possible to be a missing person and not even know it?

Are you homeless, sleeping rough, squatting or staying with friends but you have not let anyone know? Did you just need to take off, but now time has ticked by and it seems like there is no way to return?