Origins and Purpose of the Protocol
Named after George Herbert, a Normandy veteran who lived with dementia and tragically passed away after going missing, the Herbert Protocol was established to prevent similar outcomes by improving the police response. The initiative was developed by Norfolk Constabulary and has since been adopted by police forces nationwide across the United Kingdom. The core purpose is to provide law enforcement with comprehensive, up-to-date information at the critical time a vulnerable person is reported missing, thereby saving precious time during the search efforts. It is a simple, yet profoundly effective, planning tool for families and caregivers.
The protocol was initially focused on individuals with dementia residing in care homes but has since expanded to include all vulnerable adults at risk of going missing, whether they live in a residential setting or independently. This expansion recognizes that wandering and confusion are risks for many people with cognitive decline, regardless of their living situation. By formalizing the information-gathering process, the protocol reduces the stress on families during an already anxious time and ensures key details are not overlooked when reporting to the police.
Essential Information Collected
The Herbert Protocol form is a detailed document designed to collect information that is highly relevant to a missing person investigation. The completion of this form, which can be stored securely by the family or carer, is a preventative measure, not a police report. The police only require the form if and when the person is reported missing. The information gathered includes:
- Physical Description: Details such as height, build, hair colour, identifying marks like tattoos or scars, and any distinguishing physical characteristics.
- Medical Information: A record of any medical conditions, including the type of dementia, and details of any required medication.
- Routines and Habits: A description of daily and weekly routines, preferred activities, hobbies, and places of interest. This helps searchers understand potential patterns of behaviour.
- Significant Places: A list of past addresses (including childhood homes), former workplaces, favourite parks, shops, or places of worship. People with dementia often return to places with emotional significance.
- Recent Photograph: A clear and recent photograph is crucial for identification and is often the first piece of information police use to circulate a description.
- Previous Missing Episodes: Records of any prior times the person went missing, including where they were found and any triggers for the incident.
- Other Contacts: Contact information for family members, friends, and any relevant professionals, such as a GP or social worker.
The Implementation Process
Implementing the Herbert Protocol is a straightforward process that provides peace of mind and prepares for a potential emergency. The steps are as follows:
- Obtain the Form: The form can typically be downloaded from a local police force's website or obtained from a health professional. Some forces and organizations also offer digital platforms for storing this information securely, such as via MedicAlert or Safe and Found Online.
- Complete Thoroughly: Fill out all sections of the form with as much detail as possible. Involving the vulnerable person themselves in the process can sometimes be beneficial and trigger positive memories.
- Attach a Photo: Ensure a recent, clear photograph of the individual is included. This photo should be updated regularly, especially after any significant change in appearance.
- Store Securely: Keep the completed form in a safe, accessible place, and ensure other family members, carers, and neighbours know where it is located. The police do not store this form, so the family is responsible for its safekeeping.
- Review and Update: Review the form regularly, ideally every six months or after any significant change in the person's health, medication, or circumstances. This ensures the information is always accurate.
- Use in an Emergency: If the person goes missing, perform an initial search of the immediate area and grounds. If they cannot be found, call the police emergency number (999 in the UK), report them missing, and state that you have a completed Herbert Protocol form ready to provide to the attending officers.
Herbert Protocol vs. Other Alert Systems
It is important to understand how the Herbert Protocol differs from other systems, as it is a proactive safety measure rather than an immediate public alert. For example, some regions in the US have 'Silver Alert' programs that broadcast information about missing vulnerable adults to the public via various channels. The Herbert Protocol, by contrast, is a pre-emptive measure for providing critical information directly to police, allowing them to act with greater speed and focus. The details gathered are used internally by the police to direct their search efforts more efficiently.
Comparison of Prepared vs. Unprepared Scenario
| Feature | With Herbert Protocol | Without Herbert Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Information Gathering | Information is already compiled and ready to hand to police. | Family or carers must recall critical details under extreme stress during the initial report. |
| Search Commencement | Police receive key information immediately, allowing a search to begin sooner. | Search is delayed while police take time to gather information from a distressed family. |
| Search Direction | Search efforts can be targeted immediately based on known routines, past addresses, and triggers. | Police must follow standard, broader search procedures while gathering more intel. |
| Stress Level | Having a plan in place reduces anxiety for caregivers during an emergency. | Caregivers face immense pressure to remember crucial details and feel immense stress. |
| Risk Reduction | Increases the chances of a vulnerable person being found quickly and safely, minimizing time spent in potentially dangerous situations. | Delays in searching and lack of specific intel can increase the risk of harm to the missing person. |
A Lifeline for Caregivers
The Herbert Protocol serves as a lifeline for caregivers of vulnerable adults. By shifting the burden of remembering vital information during a crisis, it allows families to focus on the immediate emergency. This proactive approach not only benefits the individual at risk but also empowers the care network surrounding them with a clear, actionable plan. With the number of people living with dementia and other cognitive issues rising, schemes like the Herbert Protocol are becoming an indispensable part of senior care and community safety. Having this plan in place, and regularly updating it, is one of the most effective steps a family or carer can take to ensure the safety and well-being of a vulnerable loved one.
For more information on supporting individuals with memory loss, visit the Alzheimer's Society website, which offers extensive resources. Link to Alzheimer's Society
Conclusion
The Herbert Protocol provides a structured, proactive framework for families and caregivers to prepare for the eventuality of a vulnerable person going missing. By completing a simple form in advance and keeping it safe, you can equip the police with the necessary information to act swiftly and effectively during a time-critical emergency. It is a vital tool for safeguarding those with dementia and other conditions, offering peace of mind and significantly increasing the chances of a safe and timely resolution.
