Missing Persons — Support for Adults and Children

When a loved one goes missing, it can be one of the most frightening and distressing experiences a family or friend can face. Feelings of panic, fear, uncertainty and helplessness are completely understandable. It is important to remember that you do not have to cope alone — help is available from the police and from specialist charities.

Whether the missing person is a child or an adult, it is important to act quickly. You do not have to wait 24 hours before reporting someone missing to the police. The sooner the police are told, the sooner they can begin a risk assessment and investigation.^{[2]Home Office guidance}

A missing child should always be treated as an emergency. If you believe a child is missing and you cannot locate them after making reasonable enquiries, contact the police immediately by calling 999 if they are believed to be in immediate danger, or 101 if there is no immediate threat but they are still missing.

Before calling, try to gather as much information as possible:

• A recent photograph.
• What they were wearing.
• Their height, build and hair colour.
• Any medical conditions or medication they need.
• Mobile phone number.
• Friends, relatives or places they may have gone.
• Social media accounts they use.
• Any recent changes in behaviour or concerns.

The police will assess the level of risk and begin an investigation as quickly as possible. The College of Policing sets out standard risk levels — low, medium, high and very high — which help decide the resources and urgency of the response.^{[4]College of Policing}

Adults can go missing for many different reasons. Understanding why someone may have disappeared can help you decide how urgent the situation is and what to tell the police.

• Mental health difficulties.
• Dementia or memory problems.
• Domestic abuse.
• Financial worries.
• Relationship breakdown.
• Suicide risk.
• Exploitation.
• Personal choice.

If you believe someone is vulnerable or at risk of harm, report them missing immediately. There is no requirement to wait 24 hours. The police will consider factors such as age, mental or physical health, any previous missing episodes, recent behaviour, whether they have access to medication, and any evidence suggesting they may be at risk.^{[4]College of Policing}

For adults with dementia, the NHS and Alzheimer's Society recommend that families and carers keep up-to-date photographs, details of routines, and a list of favourite places so this information is ready if it is ever needed.^[5]NHS

While the police investigate, you can help by:

• Providing clear and accurate information.
• Sharing recent photographs.
• Keeping a written timeline of events.
• Listing everyone who has been contacted.
• Checking hospitals if advised by the police.
• Monitoring bank activity or mobile phone information if appropriate and lawful.
• Avoiding speculation on social media that could hinder the investigation.

Always discuss any public appeals with the police so that information released is accurate and does not affect the investigation. Some public appeals can unintentionally put a missing person at greater risk, so police advice should be followed.

Living with uncertainty is incredibly difficult. Families often experience anxiety, sleep problems, depression and emotional exhaustion. It is important to remember that support is available. You do not have to cope alone.

Family members may benefit from:

• Counselling.
• Bereavement-style support for ambiguous loss.
• Practical advice.
• Financial guidance if appropriate.
• Support groups for families of missing people.

Missing People offers specialist emotional support for families of missing children and adults, including counselling and a network of people who understand what you are going through.^{[1]Missing People}

When someone is missing, it is easy to neglect your own wellbeing. Try to:

• Accept help from family and friends.
• Eat and drink regularly.
• Rest whenever possible.
• Keep a notebook of events and conversations.
• Share responsibilities with trusted people.
• Ask for emotional support if you are struggling.

You cannot pour from an empty cup. Looking after yourself helps you remain strong for the person you are trying to find. If you are finding it hard to cope, Samaritans and your GP are there for you too.^{[7]Samaritans}

Most people reported missing are found safely. Every situation is different, but acting quickly, working closely with the police, and accepting support from specialist organisations gives the best opportunity of bringing someone home safely.

If you are currently dealing with a missing loved one, please know that you are not alone. Help and support are available, and there are people who will stand beside you throughout this difficult time.