The Mirror is calling for better support and care for missing people and their loved ones – too many of whom are being let down and are unable to get vital support
Someone is reported missing every 90 seconds in the UK. And too many families are left with nowhere to turn as they grapple with the agony of not knowing if a loved one is dead or alive.
This must change. The Mirror is calling for better support and care for missing people and their families.
Backed by Missing People, the only UK charity dedicated to supporting missing children and adults, and their loved ones, we are campaigning through this petition to stop missing people from falling through the cracks.
Every year, over 170,000 people go missing, including nearly 75,000 children. Many are found, but others remain missing, leaving them at serious risk of harm and causing heartbreak for their loved ones.
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A few cases become high-profile, gaining nationwide attention from the media and politicians. But many go unreported, leaving devastated families battling to be heard. Race, class, gender, sexuality, job choices, familial ties can all be factors.
Sometimes the police are accused of mishandling cases of people who have disappeared. In 2022, the Metropolitan Police apologised to the family of Richard Okorogheye for failings in the handling of initial reports that he was missing. The 19-year-old’s body was found in a lake in Epping Forest in 2021, two weeks after he went missing.
The police watchdog found officers provided “an unacceptable level of service” after he went missing. His mother Evidence Joel previously said she felt dismissed and her son’s case wasn’t taken seriously.
People disappear for many reasons, including mental health issues, suicide, exploitation and dementia. But there’s no clear government strategy to prevent this or to support people.
Vulnerable people are falling through the gaps, experiencing serious harm while they are away, with little or no support to help address the reasons why they went missing. They need help, so they don’t go missing again.
A dedicated strategy led by the Home Office, Department for Education, and Department for Health and Social Care could provide the proper attention and resources.
Without it, thousands will continue to go missing without support. When people return, there is no meaningful opportunity to speak to anyone about why they went missing, or what happened while they were away. This leaves vulnerable people, who are often in crisis, with no support.
Life is never hopeless. Everyone should know that someone cares, and that help is available, including from the charity Missing People.
The Mirror’s asks:
• Publish a new missing children and adults strategy to ensure police, health and social care play their part
• Invest in prevention for those at most risk of going missing
• Offer support to every missing child and adult on their return
You can back our campaign by signing our petition here.
For advice, support and options, if you or someone you love goes missing, text or call Missing People’s Helpline on 116 000 or email [email protected]. It’s free, confidential and non-judgmental, and sightings information can also be taken. Or visit www.missingpeople.org.uk
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