MAKE RUNAWAYS SAFE CAMPAIGN

Early day motion 2039, tabled 6 July 2011 by Ann Coffey (Labour). Signed by 64 members.

That this House commends The Children's Society on the launch of their Make Runaways Safe campaign which seeks to protect every child who runs away; notes that over 100,000 children run away each year with many being forced to leave home whilst others are fleeing conflict, neglect or abuseand that over two-thirds of these are not reported missing to the police; is concerned at the serious risks these children face, exposed to violence, criminality, substance misuse and sexual exploitation on the streets; regrets that currently most children who run away do not get the help they need; calls on local authorities and agencies to make sure that these children are identified and receive advice, guidance, help and support they need to stay safe; and urges the Government to provide a national safety net for young runaways to protect them from harm.

Signatures by party: Labour 29, Liberal Democrat 18, Conservative 11, DUP 3, Alliance 1, Plaid Cymru 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.