Extra support for young runaways

Young people will be asked why they ran away and what happened to them

Young runaways in the Grampian region will be interviewed by specially-trained police to try to prevent them fleeing again.

A pilot project will see dedicated officers ask children why they left home and what happened to them while they were away.

The youngsters will also be offered support for any problems they may have.

Police said early intervention was crucial in preventing children becoming habitual runaways.

Grampian Police Supt John Duncan said: "We know that a number of reasons can play a part in a decision to run away.

"However, when they are at their most vulnerable they can find themselves in risky situations whether that may be exposure to alcohol, drugs, violence and, or, sexual exploitation.

We are better able to support young people and keep them safe when we have more open communication with them Melanie Stone Barnardo's Scotland

"We hope that the investment in time of dedicated staff to conduct a thorough return-home welfare interview with a young person will help signpost them to services at an early stage before situations escalate or the young person is caught in a cycle of perpetual running away or risk of abuse."

Children's Minister Adam Ingram added: "Children run away from home for many reasons but it's vital that, as a society, we let them know they are never alone and that help is there.

"By intervening early to take fast, effective action like this we can help these young people get their lives back on track and Grampian is providing a superb example and an inspiration to the rest of Scotland."

Grampian Police has worked with Barnardo's Scotland to help young runaways since 2003.

Melanie Stone, of the charity's young runaway service in Aberdeen, said: "The pilot initiative focuses on improving the interviewing of young people after they have been missing from their home or placement.

"We recognise that we are better able to support young people and keep them safe when we have more open communication with them."

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