Young Runaways Action Plan

Around 100,000 young people under the age of 16 run away from home or care each year across the UK. The DCSF has taken the lead in coordinating policy developments across Government to ensure appropriate services are in place to respond to the needs of those who run away, in partnership with the Home Office, the Department of Communities and Local Government.

This plan demonstrates the Government’s commitment to improving services for young runaways and seeks to bring about improvements at a local level. The steps set out in this plan are intended to catalyse long-term change, driven by the responsibility to respond to the needs young runaways.

The case for action is clear and it is essential that Government, local delivery agencies and the voluntary sector work together to put in place those services that will prevent young runaways coming to harm and provide them with the support they need.

More information on young runaways