Organisation and history

Hostage UK is an independent charity that supports hostages and their families, both during and after a kidnap. We are staffed predominantly by people with direct experience of kidnapping, supported by a team of volunteers and pro bono specialist advisors. Families can call our 24/7 local rate helpline: 0845 608 1360.

Hostage UK has three core aims:
  • To provide specialist services and pastoral support to hostages and their families, both during and after the case, including through our 24/7 helpline: 0845 608 1360;
  • To provide specialist education and independent advice to organisations with employees facing a kidnap risk to help them improve family support;
  • To campaign and advocate for improved government and organisational policy and practice around kidnapping incidents.
All our funding is transparent; for full details go to Support Us.