Focus Group on the Herbert Protocol
You are invited to take part in a small focus group, facilitated by Police Scotland, to share views and experiences of the Herbert Protocol. Participants’ insights will help inform future thinking and development, particularly as new options are being considered. To take part click here.
Why we are holding this focus group
This engagement is taking place to better understand how the Herbert Protocol is currently experienced in Scotland — what works well, what can be challenging, and what could be improved.
There is also a proposal to introduce a digital version of the Herbert Protocol, alongside the existing paper form. Before any decisions are made, it is important that the voices of people living with dementia and carers help shape the direction.
You do not need to have used or completed a Herbert Protocol form to take part.
What is the Herbert Protocol?
The Herbert Protocol is a form that may be completed by, or for, a person living with dementia. It gathers information that may help the police if someone goes missing, such as daily routines, familiar places, things that offer reassurance, and important personal details. Some people will be very familiar with it, while others may only have heard of it or be learning about it for the first time – all perspectives are welcome.
Paper and digital versions
In Scotland the Herbert Protocol is only available as a paper form. Paper forms can feel familiar, straightforward and accessible, and do not rely on technology. However, some people find that paper forms can be misplaced, are harder to keep up to date, or may not be easy to access quickly in an emergency.
A digital version, if introduced, could make it easier to update information and share it quickly if required. At the same time, people may have concerns about digital access, confidence using technology, or the security of personal information. The focus group will explore these different perspectives.
Other ways information might be stored
You will also hear briefly about services where accredited organisations securely store Herbert Protocol information on someone’s behalf and make it available to the police if needed. This may feel reassuring to some people, while others may have concerns about trust, control, or choice. There will provide opportunity to discuss these different perspectives.
What taking part involves
The focus group will be a supportive and respectful discussion. You don’t need to answer every question, and there is no pressure to share anything you are uncomfortable with.
Your views will help ensure that any future changes to the Herbert Protocol are centred on the needs of people living with dementia and carers.
