Home Should Be Safe
Domestic abuse is one of the key reasons why children run away and go missing in Europe. Children who experience violence, abuse, neglect or coercive control at home may not be able to speak up for themselves. But the adults in their daily life, teachers, coaches, neighbours, youth workers and family members are often in the best position to notice that something is wrong. This campaign provides the adults around the child with a three-step approach to help protect them: Recognize the signs, Reach Out, and Report the concern.
RECOGNISE THE SIGNS BEFORE A CHILD GOES MISSING
The campaign identifies five key warning signs that may indicate a child is living in an unsafe home, from sudden changes in behaviour and unexplained injuries to a visible fear of going home. These recognition points are grounded in scientific research and national child protection guidelines, and have been individually reviewed by experts from across Europe and the UK. The campaign explains what each sign may look like in practice, how to start a conversation with a child, and where to report a concern.