A MISSING children and young person’s helpline has been set up to give free confidential advice to youngsters.

Cheshire East have entered into partnership with other local authorities to deliver the Catch 22 service, which will engage with children that are missing from home.

The helpline will be staffed by caseworkers from the Missing People charity.

The aim of the service is to directly link children and young people to a local support network.

It aims to provide targeted support to enable youngsters to develop strategies to keep themselves safe.

Clr Hilda Gaddum, cabinet member in charge of children and family services, said: “I welcome this new service, which will help engage with children who are missing from home, often placing themselves at high risk."

The helpline number is: 0808 168 9698.

For more information about the service, or volunteering, contact Kathy Boardman on 07889 128221.

Learn more about the people we help at: www.catch-22.org.uk