The following is an email from the Old Coulsdon Ward policing team about The Herbert Protocol. The Herbert protocol form and the guidance notes that go with it are linked at the end of this article:
Dear Ward Member,
DO YOU CARE FOR SOMEONE WITH SUPPORT NEEDS SUCH AS DEMENTIA AND WORRY THEY MAY GO MISSING?
There is nothing more frightening than when a loved one, friend or neighbour goes missing or fails to return when they should.
For people living with dementia, this could be quite common.
The Herbert Protocol is a national scheme being introduced by the Metropolitan Police and other agencies which encourages carers to compile useful information which could be used in the event of a vulnerable person going missing.
The idea is to complete a form recording all vital details such as required medication, mobile numbers, places previously located, a recent photograph etc.
In the event of a family member or friend going missing, the form can be handed to the police to reduce the time taken in gathering this information and inform the investigation to locate them.
Provide copies of the completed form to other family members, friends and neighbours with an up to date photograph attached.
If your loved one goes missing and after you have conducted an ‘open door’ search of the address, grounds and outbuildings alert the police at the earliest opportunity.
If you believe that the person missing is at a high risk of harm, please call 999. Tell the police operator that you have the Herbert Protocol person profile.
The description, known places of interest and the photograph can be circulated to all police officers and PCSOs on the front line.
Once the person is located the form & photo are not stored or kept by Police but returned.
You are encouraged to keep the information up to date for future use.
Regards,
PC 2518SN Allen
PC 2642SN Straker
PCSO 7157SN Allan
