Hertfordshire Constabulary has adopted Safe and Found Online, a new portal to help quickly locate vulnerable missing people.
Launched on 16th January, the initiative will provide vital support for veterans and individuals living with dementia.
The constabulary is urging family members, friends and carers of those at risk of going missing to register key information about them. This information, stored securely online, can save crucial time in developing a search plan should someone go missing.
The digital forms follow the nationally recognised Herbert Protocol and Forcer Protocol:
- Herbert Protocol: A UK-wide scheme aimed at reducing harm to people living with dementia by enabling swift access to essential details that help police locate them quickly.
- Forcer Protocol: Designed to protect service veterans, active military personnel and reservists who go missing. Named in memory of Lance Corporal Alan Forcer, who tragically took his own life after struggling with PTSD and depression following military service.
Through the new portal, officers can instantly access personal details submitted by individuals or their carers, ensuring searches can begin without delay.
Former military personnel may face challenges reintegrating into civilian life, and if they go missing while vulnerable, rapid access to accurate information can be lifesaving. Similarly, for those living with dementia, up-to-date profiles including recent photographs and descriptions are critical for identification.
Safe and Found Online, the free secure platform behind the initiative, is fully GDPR compliant and uses two-way factor authentication. Carers, family and individuals can update profiles anytime, replacing outdated paper forms with a convenient digital solution.
To register for free, visit Safe and Found Online.
To report someone as missing, you can do this online at herts.police.uk/report, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat at herts.police.uk/contact or call 999.