The Herbert Protocol
The Herbert Protocol is a UK scheme to help police quickly find people with dementia or similar conditions if they go missing. Families or carers fill out a form in advance with key details.

Typical information includes:
- Personal details: name, date of birth, address
- Recent photograph
- Physical description: height, build, hair, distinguishing features
- Medical conditions and medications
- Communication abilities (e.g., verbal, hearing issues)
- Daily routines and habits
- Places they like to visit or used to visit (work, old homes, favorite spots)
- Triggers or behaviors (e.g., may try to “go to work”)
- Risks (falls, confusion, traffic awareness)
- Mobility: walking aids, pace
- Clothing they usually wear or might be wearing
- Access to vehicles (car details if relevant)
- Emergency contacts and carers’ details
The form is kept by the carer and shared with police if the person goes missing to save time.
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