The Herbert Protocol - when vulnerable adults go missing

How does the Herbert Protocol work?

The protocol will run throughout Darlington and County Durham. When you sign up the police will contact you to discuss the process and will suggest steps to prevent particularly vulnerable adults going missing.

The police will also explain the process to be followed to ensure a swift response should the person concerned fail to return home.

What do I do ?

Carers, family, friends, care providers and agencies can identify any vulnerable adult who is at risk of going missing. The police will then contact you and issue a standardised document for completion.
This document will provide the police with the right information at an early stage. Readily available information such as places frequented, which bus routes are used and areas which they are likely to frequent will help the police locate the person concerned at an early stage. You will also be encouraged to keep a recent photograph, an up to date list of medication and other specific information which can be accessed quickly.

You will be asked to keep the form and the photograph in an easily accessible place. If the vulnerable adult goes missing at that point you will contact the police and hand over the up to date form. This should help the police locate the missing person as quickly as possible.

For further information on how to access the document and contact Durham Police check out the Durham Constabulary Herbert Protocol leaflet [PDF Document] or see the Durham Constabulary website [external link] to request a form directly.