If you are worried that a child or young person is missing right now, call 999 immediately.
The Philomena Protocol is similar to the Herbert Protocol (which is used for adults with vulnerabilities, like dementia). It also encourages involving the child or young person in filling out the form, when appropriate, so their own insights are included.
Completing the form
The Philomena Protocol form should be completed by the people who know the child or young person best. It should be kept in a safe place and updated regularly to make sure the information stays current.
You’ll need to provide a photo of the child on the form so the police can identify them. Make sure this photo is kept up to date..
If the child or young person goes missing
You should ring 101 or 999 and give the Philomena Protocol form to the police. It will be used to help them find your child as soon as possible.
Missing People is a UK charity offering free, confidential support to anyone affected by a missing person.
Not at Home Protocol
The Not at Home Protocol helps care staff decide when to contact the police if they do not know where a child is.
If it is safe, staff may spend a short time trying to find the child first. If there are worries about the child’s safety, the police will be contacted straight away.
The Philomena Protocol can be used alongside this to help police act quickly if a child is reported missing.
If you’re a practitioner
If you work with children or vulnerable adults, please refer to our Missing Person Protocol for professionals. It provides guidance on prevention, response, support and protection for people (both children and adults) who are at risk of going missing or have gone missing.