Advice on what to do if a loved one goes missing including how to report a disappearance

EVERY year thousands of people go missing leaving behind their worried loved ones.

Here is everything you need to know about who to contact if someone you know goes missing.

Who is the best person to contact if a loved one goes missing?

You can report a loved one missing either by calling or visiting your local police station or you can call 999 if it is an emergency.

The charity states that you do not have to necessarily wait 24 hours to report someone missing and can contact them if you don’t want to speak directly with police.

What information will the police ask for?

When someone is reported missing to the police, cops will need some details to assist them in their search.

This could include:

• Personal details about the missing person such as their full name, date of birth, home address and employment details
• Further detail about their disappearance including when you last had contact with them, what they were wearing when they disappeared and possible reasons behind their disappearance
• Any factors which could put the person at risk
• Police may also ask for personal items belonging to the missing person, their mobile phone for example or laptop. Cops may also want to visit their house to carry out a search

Is the missing person at risk?

A disappearance should be immediately reported if the person missing could be at risk.

A missing person could be considered “at risk” if:

• They are under 16 or over 65 years old
• Suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s
• Have been acting out of character
• Suffer from mental health issues
• Have suffered an increased amount of stress
• Suffer from an illness or disability
• Have a learning disability
• Are in need of regular medication or care

How can the Missing Persons charity help?

Volunteers and staff at the charity are able to answer calls 24 hours a day thanks to funding from the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Helen Alves, head of central services at Missing People added: “With over 250,000 reports of somebody going missing each year, Missing People is here for anybody who is vulnerable and away from home, as well as the family and friends who are left behind.

“We know that it can be difficult for families to find someone to talk to who understands the unique situation that they’re in.

“Our caring, non-judgemental and highly trained team are on hand, 24/7, to provide emotional support as well as practical advice on things such as legal and financial issues.

“We can also help search for a missing loved one by launching a publicity appeal.

“A missing person should always be reported to the police in the first instance. However, if for any reason somebody finds speaking to the police difficult, our team are happy to help.”

If you want to speak to someone at the Missing People call 116 000