Kate McCann has spoken with profound emotion about her experience as the mother of a missing child, lending her powerful voice to support a vital new helpline for vulnerable young people. The mother of Madeleine McCann, who vanished in Portugal in 2007, is championing The Independent's SafeCall campaign, aiming to turn her family's personal tragedy into a source of support for others.
The Stark Reality of Missing Children in the UK
Writing for The Independent, McCann described the agonising emotional strain familiar to families in her situation. "Whenever I hear about a young person who feels vulnerable, frightened, or at risk, it resonates so deeply," she shared. "I recognise the fear, the exhaustion, and the fragile balance between hope and heartbreak that families live with every day." Her words underscore the motivation behind SafeCall, a free and confidential service designed to offer support, safety, and advice.
The statistics are harrowing. A child is reported missing every two and a half minutes in the United Kingdom, amounting to approximately 72,000 cases annually. On average, one missing child dies every week. For families, the burden is compounded by relentless uncertainty. "For families of missing children, that weight is made heavier by uncertainty, silence, and the constant question of whether your child is safe," McCann explained.
How SafeCall Offers a Confidential Lifeline
SafeCall is an initiative by the charity Missing People. It provides a discreet, non-judgemental channel for children and young people who have gone missing or are considering leaving home to seek help. The service includes a helpline, a WhatsApp channel, and a 24-hour chatbot, all designed to be easily accessible.
Children disappear for many complex reasons. More than half have experienced conflict, abuse, or neglect at home. While most return, every single one needs support. SafeCall aims to give them a chance to speak confidentially about why they felt the need to leave, offering connection and comfort when they may feel they have nowhere else to turn.
The charity behind the service, Missing People, already manages to reach about one in four children reported missing. With public support, they hope to extend their reach significantly. The Independent has launched a campaign to raise £165,000 to fund this crucial new service, ensuring it remains free for those who need it most.
A Legacy of Support from Personal Heartbreak
Kate McCann's advocacy highlights the universal need for such a resource. While her daughter's case gained global attention, the feelings of fear and desperation are shared by all families of missing children. By supporting SafeCall, she hopes to ensure other young people have a safe place to reach out, and other families have the comfort of knowing help is available.
The service was co-designed and piloted by young people themselves, ensuring it meets their needs effectively. It promises to be a lifeline, not just a headline. For friends and relatives, it offers the reassurance that someone—even a stranger—is there to listen and support their missing loved one when they cannot.
To contribute to this vital cause, you can donate directly or text SAFE to 70577 to give £10 to Missing People—a sum that is enough for one child to receive the help they desperately need.
