Video: Derbyshire Police Chief video appeal over new scheme to find missing people with dementia

The scheme involves a relative to the vulnerable person, or carer completing a form, which can be found on the police website.

The form includes vital details such as a description, places they like to visit, daily routines and medication taken.

Once the it is complete it can be downloaded, this is then readily available to provide to police in the event that the person goes missing.

Detective Chief Inspector Matt Thompson said: “This system is a simple way of providing agencies with the vital information that is needed when someone goes missing.

“It is crucial that officers receive information as quickly as possible to enable them to start searching and put a plan of action in place. This completed form will enable officers to do just that.

“When someone goes missing it is a very stressful time for everyone involved. We hope that the Herbert Protocol will provide the families of people living with Dementia some reassurance.

Tim Benson from the Alzheimer’s Society said: “The Herbert Protocol is a tried and tested system to support people who are lost due to cognitive problems. Its introduction into Derbyshire is very welcome.

“Derbyshire Constabulary has carried out extensive consultation and discussion with stakeholders to implement the system. This sound base should get the protocol off to a good start. It deserves the support of all those involved.”

For more information on The Herbert Protocol and to download an information leaflet and the form, visit: http://www.derbyshire.police.uk/HerbertProtocol