Protecting your loved ones

What is it?

The Herbert Protocol is a national initiative used by police forces and other agencies across the UK to support vulnerable people who are at risk or more susceptible, particularly those with dementia, to go missing.

It encourages carers, family members or friends to complete a simple form in advance which records important details about the person such as:

Full name, address and photo

Places they have previously lived

Favourite locations, routines or hobbies

Medical conditions and medication needs

Emergency contact details

The form is kept safely by the family or carer, not automatically sent to the police. If the person goes missing, it can be handed to the police immediately, giving them access to crucial information that can speed up the search and improve the chances of a safe return.

Why is it important?

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 in 10 people with dementia will go missing at some point. Most are found quickly, but every minute matters, especially in bad weather, busy areas, or unfamiliar surroundings.

This can also be reffered to as 'wandering' which is an alternate term which, specifically for those with dementia, may be more accurate. They might not realise they are 'missing', they might simply be going for a walk without conciously realising they do not know where they are, making wandering an accurate term, however, none the less, they are still missing.

The Herbert Protocol ensures that police officers aren’t starting from scratch when someone goes missing. Having the form ready allows them to respond faster and more effectively, focusing their efforts on the places the person is most likely to go.

Why is it called the Herbert Protocol?

The scheme is named after George Herbert, a war veteran of the Normandy landings who lived with dementia and went missing from his care home. His story highlighted the need for a faster, more coordinated response to help vulnerable people return home safely.

You can find out more by clicking the Herbert Protocal logo below, which will take you directly to the office website where you can find more information on how the protocol was set up.