Return Home Conversations are initiated as a statutory response by Children’s Social Care when a young person is reported missing and returns. This ensures that every young person has the opportunity to be listened to promptly, that risks are identified, and that appropriate support is put in place.

The purpose of a Return Home Conversation is to understand the reasons for going missing, explore any harm or exploitation risks, and agree next steps that help keep the young person safe. By taking time to listen carefully, build trust, and explore the circumstances around the incident, we help strengthen protective factors, reconnect young people to support networks, and reduce the likelihood of further missing episodes.

Our practitioners work sensitively and professionally, keeping the young person’s voice, wellbeing, and agency at the centre. Where appropriate, they collaborate with families, carers, and partner agencies to put practical and emotional support in place—so young people feel connected, supported, and better equipped to make positive decisions in the future.