Report reveals 2,000 NI children run away each year

According to a new social report more than 2,000 children under the age of 16 run away from home in Northern Ireland.

The “Lost Youth” survey, carried out by charity Extern across the UK also reveals that more than a third of children who run away from home sleep rough.

The Children’s Promise Millennium Appeal supports the survey, which was carried out in collaboration with the Children’s Society and the Aberlour Childcare Trust.

The report launched on Wednesday September 26 details why young people run away, their experiences while away from home along with the potential solutions to the problem.

Bill Lockhart, Chief Executive of Extern said: “Lost Youth outlines how the experience of Northern Ireland’s runaways differs from those in the rest of the United Kingdom – impacted by the influence of paramilitary activities plus strong community and family networks.”

The report states that the main reason for running away is problems at home – mostly because of arguments and conflict, which in turn is aggravated by personal problems or problems at school.

More than a quarter of those surveyed left home because of physical abuse, emotional abuse or neglect. One in twelve of those questioned about their experiences said they had been sexually assaulted.

The report also states there is no difference between girls and boys running away, in contrast to the UK where young women are most likely to run.

Marking the launch the report 2,000 balloons were released on Wednesday on the steps of Stormont to represent the 2,000 young people who run away or are forced to leave home each year in Northern Ireland. (AMcE)