Support someone who may go missing

The "Herbert Protocol" aims to make sure that if someone goes missing, the police can get access to important information about that person as soon as possible.

The idea is that this will help the police to plan and start their search as quickly as possible.

If you are concerned about a person living with dementia and believe they are missing you must call the police on 999. 

Completing the form

The Herbert Protocol form should be completed by the individuals who know the person best. It should be kept in a safe place and updated as necessary on a regular basis.

You'll need to provide a photo of the person on the form so police can identify them. You'll need to make sure this is kept up to date.

If the person goes missing

You should ring 101 or 999 and give the Herbert protocol form to the police. It will be used to help them find your loved one as soon as possible. 

We will never share your information with anyone else, unless as part of a live investigation.

If you're a practitioner

Our missing person protocol is for all practitioners who would be involved in the prevention, response, support, and protection of people, which includes both children and adults, who are at risk of or go missing.

Read our missing person protocol.