Herbert Protocol

Do you have a friend or relative with Alzheimer's or dementia and often worry that they may go missing?

We appreciate that caring for people with dementia is challenging - and that planning ahead and keeping safe is really important. There is often a risk that people living with dementia can, at some point, start to 'walk about'. While this may only be into the garden or street, returning a short time later, some people can get lost and go missing. This can lead to feelings of confusion, fear and vulnerability for individuals and their families, particularly at night time or during times of extreme weather.

The Herbert Protocol is here to help provide you with reassurance and help you keep friends and relatives safe. It is a national initiative adopted by Cheshire Constabulary, as well as other police forces around the UK.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service promotes the Herbert Protocol during Safe and Well visits.

Information to help to search for someone with dementia

As part of making reasonable life adjustments, we want to help by putting a system in place that will help to give the emergency services the best possible information should there be a need for them to become involved in a search for someone with dementia.

The Herbert Protocol is a form which is kept at home, or in a safe place, with important information about a vulnerable person. Should they go missing, information is easily on hand about routines, medical requirements and favourite places to visit and can be handed over to the police, alleviating the worry of collecting it together during a stressful time.

How to utilise the Herbert Protocol

To join, you need to:

1. Read the guidance information below.

2. Download and complete The Herbert Protocol Vulnerable Adult Missing Person Profile (opens in new window) and retain in a safe place.

If someone goes missing:

This is vital - if you can't find someone in the normal way you would expect to, then you MUST call the Police on 999. It is quite normal to worry about calling 999. Some people are concerned that they will be criticised for calling the Police, but if you are worried about a person's safety then this will not happen.

For further information please visit the Cheshire Constabulary website (opens in new window)