Missing persons framework refreshed as police investigations fall

The number of police investigations into missing persons has fallen significantly since a framework which supports those most at risk was implemented.

The National Missing Persons Framework for Scotland is the first of its kind in the UK, and works to prevent those at risk of going missing from doing so, and responds quickly if they do.

The framework, first published in 2017, has now been refreshed by the Scottish Government, to include enhanced training for staff so they are able to better understand why some people choose to go missing.

Closer working will be supported between public protection teams and local child and adult protection committees to link resources and treat missing cases as part of their wider oversight work.

They say children, care experienced children, and people with dementia are some of the most at risk of going missing, therefore key information is needed so action can be taken sooner.

Community safety minister Siobhian Brown said: “It is devastating for families and friends when a loved one goes missing.

“Since we first published the framework in 2017, the proportion of people going missing once who do so again has dropped from one in two to one in three, and our collaborative approach has seen a decrease in the number of investigations needed.

“Scotland is leading the way in shared efforts to reduce the number of people who go missing each year. To help further reduce the risk of people going missing and to limit the harm when they do, we are introducing new measures to make it easier to identify those at risk.

“The refreshed National Missing Persons Framework for Scotland 2025 builds on good practice to continue to support some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.”

Professor Hester Parr, chairman of the working group for missing people in Scotland, said: “The expert working group is delighted to be launching this guidance, which will help protect missing people and their families.

“The guidance in Scotland is informed by research and best practice, is unique in the UK and helps Scotland lead the way internationally in trying to address this deeply entrenched social and spatial problem.

“Missing is a sticky issue for multi-agency groups, and the new guidance offers support for change and progress in Scotland.

“This builds on existing success but also charts a path to more change and continuous improvement. Missing people deserve nothing less than that.”