Expectations

Summary

This College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice (APP) page details the expectations of police when responding to missing persons incidents. Officers are tasked with safeguarding individuals reported missing and must thoroughly assess risks to inform resource allocation. Legal expectations stem from the European Convention on Human Rights, compelling officers to act reasonably to protect the rights of individuals at risk. The response begins with an initial risk assessment, which must account for any vulnerability or unique circumstances of the missing person. Governance and strategic oversight are essential for effective investigation, highlighting the importance of proper leadership and accountability within police forces. A cyclical investigation cycle is essential for addressing underlying causes for a person going missing, and officers must differentiate between varying categories of missing person cases, ensuring appropriate actions are taken based on the level of risk involved.

Key principles

• 1Safeguarding the missing individual is the primary responsibility of police.
• 2Risk assessment should guide resource allocation and actions taken.
• 3Legal obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights must be observed.
• 4Document safeguarding actions and rationales for accountability.
• 5Implement effective governance structures to enhance service delivery.
• 6Utilize a cyclical investigation approach to address underlying issues.
• 7Differentiate between missing persons and related categories requiring distinct approaches.

Defined terms

ECHR

European Convention on Human Rights.

AWOL

Absent Without Leave.

MAPPA

Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements.

CSE

Child Sexual Exploitation.

NDM

National Decision Model.

MASA

Multi-Agency Safeguarding Arrangements.

PIP2

Professionalising Investigations Programme Level 2.

Risk principles

Framework guiding the assessment and management of risk.