Wiltshire Police Back Nationwide Scheme to Find Missing Dementia Patients
A vital scheme aimed at locating missing dementia sufferers is gaining momentum across the UK, with Wiltshire Police joining in for National Dementia Action Week (16-22 May).
The Herbert Protocol: A Lifesaver for Dementia Patients
The Herbert Protocol helps police and carers quickly find missing vulnerable adults. Dementia is behind roughly one in ten adult missing cases nationwide, with 40% of dementia sufferers estimated to go missing at some point—often by accident.
Families and carers are urged to act ahead of time by filling out a simple booklet with key details like medication, contact numbers, recent photos, and places the person is known to visit. This info speeds up the critical first hour of any search, reducing risks linked to their condition and the elements.
How to Get Your Hands on the Herbert Protocol
- Download and complete the form electronically from the Wiltshire Police website
- Print, fill out by hand, and store the paper copy safely
- Pick up a form at local doctor’s surgeries, police stations, or council offices in Trowbridge, swindon/" title="Swindon" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Swindon, and Chippenham
Keep the completed Herbert Protocol somewhere easy to find. Police will only request it if someone is reported missing, but having it ready could save precious time.
Wiltshire Police on the Frontline of Dementia Awareness
“The Herbert Protocol is such a valuable tool in helping police find some of our most vulnerable missing people,” said Detective Inspector Eirin Martin, Force Lead for Missing Persons. “Those with dementia are at increased risk, especially due to weather and other factors. We want to raise awareness of this vital document during Dementia Action Week.”
Look out for Wiltshire Police at Swindon Central Library today (16 May) between 10.30am and 12.30pm, joining the Dementia Action Week Expo.
How to Report a Missing Person
- Call 101 to report a missing person at any time
- Dial 999 if the person is a child or believed to be in serious danger
- Contact the charity Missing People on 116 000 for support
