Resources
This page brings together the guides, information packs and external resources that we think are most useful for the people we serve.
Everything here is free to download, share and use.
Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is a national scheme, run by police forces and search and rescue teams, that encourages carers, families and care homes to keep a record of key information about a person with dementia or another condition that might cause them to go missing.
The form captures details such as a recent photograph, medication, places they used to live or work, favourite routes and locations, and other information that helps the police and search teams find them more quickly.
If you care for someone with dementia or a similar condition, filling in a Herbert Protocol form now could save critical time if they ever go missing.
The completed form stays with the family or care home, not with the police, and is handed over at the point of reporting.
Official PDF
Herbert Protocol form
Complete the form digitally or print it and fill it in by hand. Keep it somewhere secure and easy to find if the person goes missing.
Official guidance
Information for carers
Read when to complete the form, how to store it safely and what to do if the person you care for goes missing.
When someone goes missing
Report it straight away. You do not need to wait 24 hours.
Call 999 if the missing person is in immediate danger or at serious risk of harm. Otherwise, call the police on 101 or use your local force’s online reporting service.
Do not try to organise your own search. The police are trained to assess the risk and coordinate the response, and they will call us if they need our help.
If you do look for someone near water while you wait, never do so alone; always go in pairs or groups, and stay well back from the water’s edge.
While you wait for the police, gather as much information as you can: what the person was wearing, when they were last seen, where they might have gone, any places that are meaningful to them, and any medical conditions or medication they need.
This information is critical and can significantly speed up the search.
Mental health support
Many of the people we search for are experiencing a mental health crisis. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. You do not have to face it alone, and if someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
Samaritans
The Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 116 123 (free from any phone) or by email at jo@samaritans.org.
SHOUT
You can contact SHOUT by texting SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential, 24/7 text support.
Mind
Mind offers information and support on 0300 123 3393.
Your GP can also provide access to local mental health services.
Water safety materials for schools
Teachers and youth group leaders can download printable water safety guides suitable for classroom use, along with a group presentation version of our Home and Dry course for teaching in classrooms and youth settings.
These complement our in-person school visits and the Home and Dry online course.
Classroom resource
Water safety classroom pack
A printable guide for teachers and youth group leaders to use in a group setting.
File awaiting upload
Group presentation
Home and Dry group presentation
A presentation version of the course for classrooms, care settings and community groups.
File awaiting upload
