
The Independent’s “SafeCall” campaign has successfully raised £165,000 (about $220,000 U.S.) to launch a critical new service for missing children across the UK. Created in partnership with the charity Missing People, SafeCall will provide a free, 24/7 lifeline to the estimated 72,000 young people who go missing annually. Supported by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and such ambassadors as Sir David Beckham, the service aims to reach vulnerable youth via a dedicated helpline, WhatsApp channel, and chatbot. “Thanks to you, Missing People can now build and launch SafeCall in 2026,” said CEO Jo Youle, emphasizing that the service will offer confidential safety and support to children who feel scared or isolated.
