Why children become runaways

Culture changes very quickly and activities which were thought of as rare when parents were children, such as body piercing, tattooing, underage binge drinking or using soft drugs such as cannabis, may well be seen as more the norm among your children's peer group. Recognise what a strong influence your children's peers have on them and get to know their friends. Always keep the lines of communication open.

Says Creek: 'If a parent always apologises for any hurt caused to a child, this models respectful and caring boundaries. It tells your child that even as adults we frequently get it wrong - and often have our own problems - but with communication and caring, anything can be resolved.'

Further advice
Runaways and Helping Children In A Changing Family are just two of the advice leaflets for parents and carers available from The Children's Society.