A Richmond based charity has received a £10,000 grant from London Freemasons to support children and young people at risk of exploitation and a life of crime.

Missing People, a national charity headquartered locally, offers support to individuals who go missing and to their families.

The new funding will bolster the charity's helpline services, helping vulnerable young people across the capital access life-saving support and escape the grip of criminal exploitation.

The helpline provides a crucial safety net for children at risk of being coerced into crime by gangs and abusers.

Many of those who call Missing People are young people in care, from ethnically minority backgrounds, or living in deprived areas, where the risks of grooming and exploitation are significantly higher.

The grant will also help fund outreach, promoting awareness of the helpline so more children and young adults know that help is available.

One recent case involved Jemma, aged 14, who contacted the charity via text after running away and expressing suicidal thoughts.

The helpline team supported her in exploring her options and helped her get to safety, continuing to support her through the process. (*Name changed for confidentiality.)

Jo Youle OBE, Chief Executive of Missing People, said: "We are incredibly thankful to London Freemasons for their generous support.

"This will make a significant difference in our ability to support young people in London.

"Going missing is a crisis. Together, we can bring hope and help to those in need."

Paul King, from London Freemasons, added: "The work that Missing People do in supporting missing children and young persons living within our communities is important and we are pleased to be able to help the charity further fund the helpline support that they provide."

The helpline offers support through calls, text, online chat and email.

The charity also provides advice and resources for those worried about someone who is missing.

To learn more about Missing People or to access help, visit: www.missingpeople.org.uk

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