Advice and support for missing people

It is not illegal to go missing. You will not be in trouble or be arrested for going missing if you get in touch with us or when you return home. It is part of our job to help you and keep you safe.

More information on what happens when you return home

Letting people know you are safe

If you have been reported missing and you want to let the police and your family know that you are safe, you can go to any police station.

We:

• will confirm who you are
• will talk to you to confirm that you are safe and well
• can let your family or whoever reported you missing know that you are safe.

If you are an adult and do not want anyone to know where you are, we will respect this and will not usually tell anyone where you are.

But if you are a vulnerable person (for example if you are under 16 or have a mental illness) we have a duty to protect you and may decide we have to tell people where you are for your own safety.

Missing People charity

The charity Missing People give advice and support to missing people as well as to the people looking for them.

Missing People website

Runaway Helpline

Missing People have a Runaway Helpline on their 116 000 number, for young people who have gone missing or are thinking of going missing.

Runaway Helpline website

Message home service

If you don’t want to talk to the police, Missing People can help you get in touch with people at home without revealing where you are.

Sending a message home via Missing People

They can also arrange a three-way call between you and the police (with Missing People mediating) if you want to talk to us without letting us know where you are.

Other charities

Samaritans are there for you whatever problems you are struggling with. You can call them 24 hours a day on 116 123. 

Mind offers advice and support to people with mental health problems.

Crisis, Shelter and Centrepoint offer advice and support to homeless people.