Briefing

1
Young Runaways Early Identification

• Briefing

2
Young Runaways Problems

• 1 in 9 children under 16 run away overnight in
  Scotland
• Running away is risky
• 1 in 6 young runaways are physically or sexually
  assaulted

3
Characteristics of Young Runaways

• More girls run away than boys (12 girls, 8
  boys)
• Boys tend to run earlier
• Average age young runaways is 14-15 years
• One-fifth run before age 11 more likely to
  continue running
• Early identification and prevention crucial

4
Characteristics of Young Runaways

• From all areas and economic backgrounds
• Ethnicity similarities and difference
• Asian young people early identification
• Children with special needs
• Sexual orientation

5
Family Context

• More likely to run from
• oneparent 16
• step-parent 14
• than two birth parents 7
• Poorer quality of family relationships for young
  runaways

6
Reasons for running

• Problems at home 78
• school 25
• personal 41
• Triggers for running
• Family conflict 39
• Child abuse and neglect
  20
• Parental problems 11

7
Young Runaways Vulnerability

• Cumulative complex problems
• Family problems relate to other issues
• Crucial to listen and act