When I came to the charity, I had gone missing through the night, relied on substances, and wasn’t going to school regularly. I was vulnerable and at risk of criminal exploitation.
When I first got in touch, I found it difficult to engage with the people who were trying to help me: I felt like my voice wasn’t valued or heard. With more consistent and caring support, though, I gradually felt safer, listened to, and able to communicate how I was feeling more openly and with more trust. I began to look forward to my weekly check-ins with them and realised just how much being given the opportunity to be heard meant to me.
Getting Support
Through my work with the charity I became more aware of the risks of not only leaving my place of care, but also my substance abuse, and the exploitation that followed. I was given guidance when it came to developing better coping strategies, building positive relationships, and improving how I manage my emotions.
I was even given more say in my care planning, which made me feel recognised and included for the first time. I also have some complicated medical needs, but my sessions were adapted to make sure that I was clear on how they also affected my personal risks and safety when I went missing.
My missing episodes have reduced, and I’ve become so much more open to talking to new professionals. Over time, I realised that the people who were there, and are still here, to support me, really do have my best interests at heart.
Is this your your experience?
A lot of young people in care will regularly be reported missing. This can be very dangerous and can lead to harm while away. Before you leave, contact Safecall, for free and in confidence.
