Overview

The Runaway and Missing Children Bill aims to improve the safeguarding of children who have run away, are missing, or have been taken away from their responsible adult. It mandates the Secretary of State to implement better information collection, reporting, and coordination among relevant agencies.

Description

This bill defines "runaway and missing children" broadly, encompassing children under 18 who have left home for various reasons, including running away, being rejected by their responsible adult, being unlawfully taken, or simply going missing.

Key Responsibilities

The bill places a legal duty on the Secretary of State to:

• Develop systems for collecting and reporting data on runaway and missing children.
• Ensure better coordination between police forces, local authorities, and other relevant organizations.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State in fulfilling its requirements, along with any increase in existing spending due to this Act, will be funded by Parliament. Specific figures are not provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Runaway and missing children: The bill directly aims to improve their safety and well-being.
• Police forces: Increased responsibilities in data sharing and coordination.
• Local authorities: Enhanced role in child protection and collaboration.
• Other relevant organizations: Increased cooperation and data sharing with other relevant agencies and bodies dealing with child protection.
• The Secretary of State: Takes on a new legal responsibility to create and implement improved systems for dealing with runaway and missing children.

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