Do you care for someone who has dementia and worry that they might go missing?

If the answer is yes, then you need to know about The Herbert Protocol. This is a national scheme introduced by the police in partnership with other agencies to encourage carers to compile useful information which could be used to help locate a vulnerable person if they go missing.

The initiative is named after George Herbert, a war veteran of the Normandy landings, who lived with dementia. George Herbert died whilst 'missing', trying to find his childhood home.

What is the Herbert Protocol?

It is a simple risk reduction tool to be used in the event of an adult with care and support needs going missing. It consists of a form that contains vital information about a person at risk that can be passed to the police at the point the person is reported missing. A recent photograph of the person should also be kept with the form. It is not intended to replace existing safeguarding and security measures.

Who decides who is at risk?

The judgement should be based on a professional opinion or knowledge of a family member.

Who completes the form?

In a care setting, the care provider, the person at risk or their family can fill in the form. Please seek permission from the person at risk or their next of kin. If neither is possible, the care provider should make a 'best interests' assessment. The form should be completed and regularly updated, so that all the information is as relevant as possible. 

When should the form be given to the police?

The police only need the form at the point the person is reported missing. There is no need to hand it to police before then and the form will be returned once the person is found.

Where should the form be stored?

It should be stored securely in the care setting, in accordance with data protection laws, but where you can find it quickly. Make sure other relatives, and relevant people know where it is, and that the person it refers to is part of the Herbert Protocol.

Where can the forms and more information be found?

Visit www.gmp.police.uk and search ‘Herbert Protocol’ to access the tool kit and documents.

What happens if the person goes missing?

First conduct an 'open door' search of the address, grounds and outbuildings and if you believe a person is missing, alert the police. If you believe that the person missing is at a high risk of harm, call 999. Tell the police operator that you have the Herbert Protocol person profile.