Families in Stone who support a loved one with dementia are being encouraged to think about a simple form that can save crucial time if that person goes missing. It is known as the Herbert Protocol, and officers say it can make a real difference in the earliest moments of a search.
People living with dementia sometimes wander from home. Sometimes it is only into the garden or down a familiar road, yet it can quickly become disorientating. When someone has not returned and relatives are unsure what to do next, police rely on clear information to understand where to begin looking.
The Herbert Protocol gathers this information in advance. Daily routines, medications, favourite places, recent photographs and any details that might guide an early search can all be recorded in one place. The form can be filled in by family members, friends, care home staff or by the person themselves. Permission should be sought where possible, although care homes may complete it if they believe it is in the resident’s best interests.
Registering the form online
The form can be completed at herbertprotocol.com, which is managed on behalf of the scheme by MedicAlert. When completed online, the information is stored securely in the national Herbert Protocol database. This means that if a Stone resident goes missing, police can access the details directly, even if relatives do not have a printed copy available. A printed version can still be helpful at home, especially during stressful moments.
Families can update the online form at any time. Dementia UK advises reviewing it every six months or after any significant change in medication, routine or health.
Keeping the form safe
For those who prefer a paper copy, the form can be printed and kept somewhere easy to find. Some relatives choose to share it with trusted neighbours or close friends. Care homes must store completed forms in line with data protection law.
Completing the form can also lead to gentle conversations about places, routines or memories. These can be positive moments although carers are encouraged to be mindful in case certain memories are upsetting.
What to do if someone goes missing
If a person cannot be found, relatives should first check the home, garden and any outbuildings. If there is no sign of them, they should call 999 straight away.
Police stress that no one will be criticised for calling if they are worried about someone’s safety. Call handlers should be told that a Herbert Protocol profile exists. Officers can access the information directly from the secure database or collect a printed form if one is available.
They will also ask additional questions about the circumstances around the disappearance, including clothing, the time they were last seen and any recent changes in behaviour.
The scheme is already used nationally and brings reassurance to families during what can be an anxious and confusing moment.
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