Sexual and criminal exploitation of missing looked after children

This debate pack of the House of Commons Library in the UK provides information on the issue of looked after children going missing, the policies governing their care placements, and the risks of sexual and criminal exploitation associated with these situations. It outlines the legal and policy framework that regulates how local authorities, police and partner agencies respond when children in care go missing, including the Runaway and Missing from Home and Care protocol and the safeguarding duties set out in the Children Act and Department for Education guidance. The document explains the responsibilities of foster carers, children’s homes and local authorities to prevent children from going missing, report incidents promptly and maintain records. It also examines the use of out-of-area placements, where children are placed away from their home authority due to care needs or safeguarding concerns. While sometimes necessary, these placements can disrupt support networks and increase vulnerability. Particular attention is given to the risks of child sexual exploitation and child criminal exploitation, including involvement in county lines drug networks. Evidence from police forces and parliamentary inquiries indicates that looked after children, especially those placed far from home, may face heightened risks due to isolation, disrupted education and limited local support.