Search for missing person solution

The former leader of the Scottish Labour Party, Kezia Dugdale, is correct to brand the number of cared-for youngsters involved in missing person inquiries as “staggering”.

More than 7,500 investigations were mounted in the year 2017-18 — a rise of 5% on the year before.

In Tayside and Fife, the figures are particularly worrying, rising at a far higher rate than the national average.

Even more concerning is the fact the majority of cases involved children who have gone missing from young persons’ residential units. There are no easy solutions.

Many of the investigations centre on a small group of individuals, some of the most vulnerable youngsters in our society, who are not easy to keep safe.

The worsening condition of adolescent mental health suggests it will be a growing issue.

Ms Dugdale has called for the Scottish Government and Police Scotland to investigate why the numbers are so high. She is right to do so and should be heeded. It is not a political issue and she is not attacking those involved in complex and testing care-giving roles. But if an investigation can uncover any systemic flaws, resolve them, and create a better environment for these young people, it must be pursued.

Recent, tragic cases have shown work is required if a real difference is to be made to those youngsters who so desperately need extra help.