Renowned actor and broadcaster Sir Stephen Fry has thrown his weight behind The Independent's groundbreaking SafeCall campaign, joining forces with the charity Missing People to create a vital new service for vulnerable young people.
Personal Connection to a Critical Cause
The celebrated comedian and mental health advocate revealed the campaign holds deep personal significance, drawing from his own experience of disappearing for three days in 1995. During that difficult period, Fry found himself overwhelmed while performing in a London theatre production and made the decision to drive away from the city.
"I just couldn't take being in the play, or being in London," Fry recalled in his documentary Stephen Fry: A Life on Screen. "I saw rows of newspaper headlines, 'Fears for Fry' type thing. That's the awful thing. I can't believe I made people worry so much."
He added with poignant honesty: "When you feel you can't go on, it's not just a phrase, it's a reality. I could not go on, and I would have killed myself if I didn't have the option of disappearing."
The Urgent Need for SafeCall
The statistics behind the campaign reveal a startling reality about child safety in the UK. Every two and a half minutes, a child is reported missing, amounting to approximately 70,000 children and young people each year who vanish from their homes and communities.
Sir Stephen expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: "I am delighted to see The Independent join forces with the charity to be there for the 70,000 children and young people who are reported missing each year in the UK – young people who are so often the target of exploitation and harm."
The campaign aims to raise £165,000 to launch SafeCall, an innovative service designed specifically to address this crisis. What makes SafeCall particularly significant is its development approach – the service will be co-designed by young people themselves, ensuring it genuinely meets their needs and concerns.
Building a Legacy of Support
Sir Stephen's advocacy for mental health and vulnerable young people isn't new. In 2011, he became president of the mental health charity Mind, further cementing his commitment to supporting those in crisis. Through his candid discussions about living with bipolar disorder, Fry has become one of Britain's most trusted voices on mental health issues.
The veteran entertainer, known for his roles in Blackadder and as host of QI, as well as recent appearances on Celebrity Traitors, emphasised the lasting impact he hopes the campaign will achieve.
"Together we can create a legacy – help available whenever young people need it, and no matter what," he affirmed.
SafeCall will provide a free, confidential service offering support, guidance and a clear route to safety for children in crisis. The initiative represents a crucial step forward in protecting some of society's most vulnerable members.
Members of the public can support the campaign by donating through The Independent's platform or by texting SAFE to 70577 to donate £10 – enough to provide help for one child through Missing People.
