Dementia is always going to be difficult for families and carers. One of the greatest worries when supporting someone with dementia is the risk of them going missing or becoming disoriented. Wandering can happen suddenly, even in familiar surroundings. And in those moments, every minute truly matters.

Thankfully, there are practical tools designed to help. The Herbert Protocol is a simple safeguarding tool that’s become widely adopted in the UK. This article will discuss what it is, how it works and how to use it.

We’ll also look at the role of modern GPS dementia trackers such as the SureSafe Dementia Tracker and how they can work alongside the protocol to help vulnerable individuals live more safely and independently.

What is the Herbert Protocol?

The Herbert Protocol is a simple but powerful safeguarding tool developed by the police in partnership with health and social care agencies and dementia support organisations. It takes its name from George Herbert, a war veteran living with dementia who frequently went missing.

The initiative was created to help emergency services act quickly when someone vulnerable goes missing. It does so by giving them instant access to vital background information.

The purpose of the Herbert Protocol is simple. To save time and lives. When a person goes missing, police often have to gather basic details from families under great stress and pressure. Having that information already prepared means the search can start immediately, focusing on the right places from the outset.

What information does the form include?

The Herbert Protocol form gathers key information that could help police locate someone quickly and safely. This includes:

Personal details – Name, date of birth, address and a recent photograph to help with identification.
Medical and medication information – So responders know about any conditions or urgent medical needs.
Places of significance – Favourite locations, previous addresses or spots where the person likes to walk or visit.
Communication needs and behaviour – Helping police understand how to approach the person calmly and effectively.
Contact information – Details for family, friends or carers who can offer additional support.
History of previous incidents – If the person has gone missing before, knowing where they were found can guide future searches.

Every detail helps the police build a clearer picture of where the person might be and how best to keep them safe.

Related reading: Guide to the Different Types of Dementia

How to access and complete the Herbert Protocol

The Herbert Protocol form is usually available through local police force websites, social services and dementia support organisations such as Age UK. Many care homes also have copies available for residents and families.

Once completed, the form should be kept somewhere easily accessible. That could be in a clearly marked envelope near the front door or stored digitally where carers and family can find it quickly. It’s a good idea to:

Review the form regularly and update it if there are any changes (such as new medication or a house move).
Tell trusted neighbours, family or professional carers where the form is kept.
Keep a printed copy and (if possible) a digital version to share easily in an emergency.

Notably, the Herbert Protocol form is only shared with the police if the person goes missing. It’s not something routinely handed in or stored on a database.

The Herbert Protocol in action

The Herbert Protocol is now widely adopted across the UK. Many police forces integrate it into their safeguarding practices for vulnerable individuals, particularly those living with dementia.

Its implementation has been supported by local authorities, care organisations and dementia charities. Above all, it’s a key tool for improving response times when someone goes missing.

Durham Police

Since implementing the Herbert Protocol in November 2017, Durham Constabulary has registered 420 individuals deemed at high risk of going missing. Of these, only 45 have been reported missing, and 119 had been previously reported missing before joining the scheme. This proactive approach has significantly reduced the frequency of missing person incidents among registered individuals.

Avon & Somerset Police

As part of a broader dementia safeguarding scheme, 846 individuals were registered using the Herbert Protocol and supporting tools. Following registration, 78% of participants did not go missing, and repeat missing incidents were reduced by approximately 67% among those with a history of wandering.

Beyond emergencies: The wider benefits

The examples above illustrate the Herbert Protocol’s practical impact. By preparing essential information in advance, families and police can respond more efficiently. In turn, that increases the chances of locating vulnerable individuals quickly and safely.

But even if the form is never used in an emergency, completing the Herbert Protocol can still be valuable. It encourages open discussion between family members, carers and healthcare professionals about safety, routines and possible risks. This process can help identify patterns of behaviour, create a sense of preparedness and reduce anxiety for everyone involved.

For many families, simply knowing that the form is ready brings peace of mind. It transforms worry into proactive planning. That can ensure the right information is already in place to help bring their loved one home safely if the worst happens.

Technology in dementia care: The SureSafe Dementia Tracker

While the Herbert Protocol prepares for emergencies, modern technology can help prevent them. The SureSafe Dementia Tracker is a wearable GPS device designed specifically for people living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. It looks like a simple wristwatch but comes packed with features that offer both security and independence.

Some of its key features include:

GPS tracking – Lets family or carers see the person’s real-time location using an app.
‘Find me’ function – Allows immediate updates on their whereabouts at the touch of a button.
Geo-fencing – Sends an alert if the wearer wanders beyond a pre-set safe area.
Non-removable bracelet – Prevents accidental or intentional removal, ensuring continuous safety.
Fall detection – Automatically detects most falls and alerts carers or the monitoring centre.
One-touch SOS button – Lets the wearer call for help quickly and easily.
Talk-through watch – Enables direct voice communication, offering reassurance in moments of confusion.
Friends & family app – Allows carers and relatives to check location, battery status and even chat securely through the app.

The device can be set up with 24/7 professional monitoring or family monitoring, depending on individual needs. Either way, it provides reassurance that help is always close at hand.

By offering accurate tracking and simple communication, the Dementia Tracker supports people to maintain their independence safely. It can reduce the anxiety often felt by both carers and those living with dementia.

Working together: Preparation meets protection

The Herbert Protocol and the SureSafe Dementia Tracker serve the same goal from different angles. One prepares for emergencies, the other helps prevent them.

Imagine this scenario. A loved one with dementia leaves home and does not return. Their family uses the Dementia Tracker’s app to check their real-time location and quickly finds them nearby, safe and well.

In another case, if the person has wandered further afield and police assistance is needed, the Herbert Protocol form can be handed over immediately. It will provide officers with crucial details, including a photograph, medical information and places of significance.

Used together, these tools reduce response times, improve safety outcomes and bring peace of mind to families. The tracker provides instant, real-time protection, while the Herbert Protocol ensures authorities are fully informed if a search becomes necessary.

Ethical and practical considerations

When using non-removable devices, it’s important to consider Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS), ensuring the wearer’s rights and consent are respected. These devices should always be used in the person’s best interest and with transparency among family and carers.

Both tools also work best when kept up to date:

Review and refresh the Herbert Protocol regularly, especially if there are changes to medication, health or routine.
Keep the Dementia Tracker charged and test alerts or app connections to ensure they’re working properly.

A little ongoing attention can ensure both tools are ready when needed most.

Supporting safety, preserving independence

Dementia doesn’t have to mean losing independence. With the right combination of planning and technology, people living with dementia can continue enjoying everyday life while carers gain reassurance that help is always close by.

The Herbert Protocol ensures vital information is at hand for police in an emergency. The SureSafe Dementia Tracker offers real-time protection and communication for everyday peace of mind.

Together, they form a powerful partnership, supporting both independence and safety for those living with dementia and confidence for the families who care for them.