The Herbert Protocol: Reducing the risks people living with dementia go walking

Wandering and dementia

It’s common for adults living with dementia to wander.  Statistics from Alzheimer’s Association suggest that six in ten people living with dementia will wander at least once, but many do so repeatedly.

Wandering, especially at night, is potentially risky. It can make someone with dementia feel more confused or distressed, and it can put someone in a vulnerable situation, especially if it’s dark or the weather is bad. At worst, there is the risk of getting lost or going missing.

The Herbert Protocol can help if someone goes missing

The Herbert Protocol is a police-led initiative designed to help locate vulnerable adults who go missing or get lost, which can happen especially in the middle stages of dementia, where wandering is common.

If someone goes missing, alert the police at the earliest opportunity. If they are at a high risk of harm, call 999.Tell the police operator that you have the Herbert Protocol person profile.

About the Herbert Protocol 

The initiative is named after George Herbert, a War veteran of the Normandy landings, who lived with dementia and sadly died while ‘missing’, trying to find his childhood home.

It is a national scheme led by the police, working in partnership with other agencies.

This video from West Yorkshire police gives a clear explanation.

The Herbert Protocol simply consists of a form that contains vital information about a person at risk that can be passed to the police at the point the person is reported missing.

A recent photograph of the person should also be kept with the form. It is not intended to be replaced.

How to Use the Herbert Protocol

The Herbert Protocol includes a form that is completed by the individual or a Carent on their behalf.  A downloadable copy of the form is available from West Manchester Police

Once completed, you can give a copy of the Herbert Protocol Form to friends, family, and neighbours. You only need to give a copy to the police if your loved one goes missing, so make sure you keep copies somewhere safe and easily accessible.

The Herbert Protocol form will give the police a full description of your loved one, including their physical description, medical history, and places of interest.

Other help with wandering 

You can also take steps to prevent wandering by installing safety technology, establishing a routine, informing others, and talking to healthcare professionals.     

A range of technology can be helpful such as :

• Door sensors 
• Personal alarms
• Boundary alarms
• Tracking devices 
• A mobile phone can be updated to include Emergency information accessible from the lock screen and also to enable tracking.  

If they do not use a mobile phone, then ensuring they carry some basic information in their wallet or pockets can be useful eg who to contact if they’re lost and someone finds them.

The Alzheimer’s Society and Met Police have more advice about wandering and dementia. 

Planning ahead can help to avoid distress,  and keep someone safe, but remember to involve your loved one throughout and respect their own privacy.