Children who run away

Generally, young people run away to try to escape their problems. Common reasons for running away include:

• because they are being abused
• because they are unhappy in their care placement
• bereavement
• drug or alcohol problems
• pregnancy
• family pressure to get married
• problems at school
• stress
• trouble with the police
• trouble with their parents or a step parent
• violence in their family.

Young people are most likely to run away between the ages of 13 and 15, and girls run away more often than boys. Certain groups of young people are more likely to run away, like those who are experiencing difficulties with their sexuality, those who are in care placements, youth offenders, drug users and those who have missed a lot of school.

The majority of children who run away from home are found safe and well and are returned to their parents. However, running away can put some children at great risk of physical harm or sexual exploitation. In order to survive they may end up sleeping rough or staying with strangers, or they may have to resort to begging or stealing. In extreme cases a young person may enter into a long-term cycle of repetitive running away, leading to long-term homelessness and other problems, like becoming involved in prostitution or with drugs.

If a young person seems unable to cope with the problems in their life they may be thinking about running away, especially if they have a history of running away, or are in one of the at risk groups mentioned above. A difficult situation at home, in particular, may be one of the signs that a young person is thinking about running away. A young person’s behaviour might suddenly change: they may become very withdrawn, constantly argue with their family, or become more rebellious.

If you know someone who has, or who is considering, running away, it’s important to encourage them to seek help. They may benefit from talking things through with a ChildLine adviser (by calling 0800 1111 or chatting online).

If you are a parent and you’re worried that your child may be thinking of running away, talk to your child about what is troubling them, or encourage them to talk to someone else. Listen to what they stay, remain calm and be understanding.

Ask your child to always let you know where they are and who they are with. If you think they have gone missing, contact their friends first and then the police.

More help

NSPCC Helpline: Advice and support for adults concerned about a child.

Police: Emergency and non-emergency police services.

Alone in London: For homeless young people or those at risk of becoming so.

ChildLine: Counselling service for young people up to 18.

Missing people: 24 hour helpline for families of missing children.

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