Monday, May 25, 2026
On Monday 25 May 2026, the Isle of Man Safeguarding Board is supporting International Missing Children’s Day—a global awareness day that highlights the issue of missing children and recognises the importance of protecting them from harm.
This day provides an opportunity for us all to reflect on how we can work together to keep children safe, and to support families when a child goes missing.
A shared responsibility
When a child goes missing, it is a safeguarding concern. While most children on the Isle of Man who go missing return home safely, often within a short period, every missing episode must be taken seriously.
Children and young people may go missing for many reasons. These situations are often complex and can indicate that a child is experiencing difficulties or may be at risk.
Common reasons can include:
- Family conflict or difficulties at home
- Bullying or challenges at school
- Mental health concerns or emotional distress
- Abuse, neglect or exploitation
- Peer pressure or involvement in risky behaviours
For some children, going missing may be a sign that they are trying to cope with something they cannot manage alone.
Our approach on the Isle of Man
Safeguarding children is a shared responsibility across agencies and the wider community.
On the Isle of Man, Police, Children and Families Services, and partner agencies work closely together to:
- Locate children as quickly as possible
- Assess and respond to any risks
- Safeguard and support children when they are found
- Work with families to understand and reduce future risk
When a child is located, they are offered a return home interview, providing a safe opportunity to talk about their experiences and any concerns.
This helps ensure that any underlying issues are identified and that the right support can be put in place.
What to do if you are concerned about a child
There are no set rules about when a child should be considered missing. If you are unsure, you can contact the police for advice.
If a child does not return home when expected and you are worried, you should first take steps to try and locate them.
You should:
- Try to contact them directly (phone, text or social media)
- Check your home and surrounding areas (including gardens, garages and outbuildings)
- Speak to friends, school, neighbours and relatives
- Ask others to contact you immediately if they hear from them
When to contact the police
If you cannot locate the child, or you are concerned for their safety, you must contact the police.
- Dial 999 in an emergency
- Or call the Isle of Man Constabulary on 01624 631212
You do not need to wait 24 hours before reporting a child missing.
Police will ask for key information to help locate the child, including:
- Name and date of birth
- When and where they were last seen
- Who they were with
- What they were wearing
- A recent photograph
- Any medical needs or vulnerabilities
- Details of the circumstances of them going missing
Raising awareness and offering support
International Missing Children’s Day is observed around the world on 25 May each year to raise awareness, support families, and promote efforts to find missing children.
International Missing Children's Day | May25 - International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children
Across Europe, campaigns also emphasise the message that when a child goes missing, there is always hope and support available, and that we must continue to raise awareness and remain vigilant as a community. International Missing Children's Day - Missing Children Europe
Further information and support
If you need advice or support, you can find more information here:
- Isle of Man Constabulary – Missing Persons
https://www.iompolice.im/report-it/missing-persons/
- The Children’s Society – Children Missing from Home
https://www.childrenssociety.org.uk/what-we-do/our-work/children-missing-home