This article reports that in 2024, over 2,000 children identified as trafficked or unaccompanied asylum seekers went missing while under the care of local authorities in the UK — 37% of 2,335 trafficked children, and 13% of 11,999 lone‑child asylum seekers in care. The report warns these children are at high risk of exploitation and re‑trafficking, highlighting failures by councils and police to implement adequate safeguarding and follow‑through when young people go missing. The findings call on the government to reform care and accommodation policies — for example, preventing 16‑ and 17‑year-olds from being placed in unsuitable settings like hostels or shared housing — and to ensure safe, appropriate housing and better coordination among responsible agencies