The ScottishGovernment

Briefing

Young Runaways – Early Identification

The ScottishGovernment

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

The ScottishGovernment

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

The ScottishGovernment

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

The ScottishGovernment

Family Context

• More likely to run from: one–parent 16% step-parent 14% than two birth parents 7%• Poorer quality of family relationships for

young runaways

The ScottishGovernment

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%

The ScottishGovernment

Young Runaways – Vulnerability

• Cumulative complex problems• Family problems relate to other

issues• Crucial to listen and act