Every year, more than 40,000 people living with dementia are reported missing for the first time across the UK. For families and loved ones, these situations can be frightening, distressing, and deeply emotional.
Dyfed-Powys Police are now working alongside Medic Alert to help raise awareness of the Herbert Protocol — a simple but incredibly important scheme designed to help vulnerable people living with dementia return home safely if they go missing.
The protocol encourages carers, relatives, and friends to complete a form in advance containing important information such as: A recent photograph Contact numbers Medication details Places previously visited or found Other important personal information.
Having this information ready can save valuable time and greatly assist emergency services in locating someone quickly and safely during what is often an extremely stressful situation.
As DC Meinir Thomas, Missing Person Co-ordinator, explains, when a loved one goes missing it can be difficult for families to think clearly under pressure. The Herbert Protocol helps ensure vital information is immediately available when it matters most.If you care for, support, or know somebody living with dementia, please consider taking a few moments to look into the scheme and complete the form.
Sometimes the smallest acts of preparation can make the biggest difference.
More information, including the form itself, can be found here:https://www.dyfed-powys.police.uk/.../advice-carers.../
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