The first few hours and days after you realise someone is missing can feel emotional and overwhelming. This information and guidance will help you understand what’s happening right now, and what you can do.
What to do when someone has just gone missingSome things you might need help with:
If someone doesn’t come home after a few days, your experience whilst they are away can change. Follow our guidance on further steps you might want to take at this stage.
What to do if someone has been missing for weeksSome things you might need help with:
It’s difficult to imagine your person not returning, but some people do remain missing for a long time. There are ways that you can stay connected, keep the search going, and find support from people with similar experiences.
What to do if someone has been missing for a long timeSome things you might need help with:
When someone is found, what happens next depends on your individual circumstances. There may be things you need to know or do, in order to look after yourself and your returned person.
What to do if your missing person has been found
Find out what to do if someone you know is missing. Remember, you can report them missing any time, you do not have to wait 24 hours.
If you want to help with the search, there are ways that you can launch your own publicity appeal using posters or social media.
Read our guidance on dealing with the media, and using them to help with the search.
Understand the process that police will follow when someone is reported missing to them.
Our Family Support team are here, for free and in confidence, to support anyone who is missing a loved one.
Get emotional support by emailing our Family Support Team, requesting a text back, or contacting them through a call or text on 116 000.
Missing People’s current Community Forum will be closing on the 11th June 2025. We will be working with those who have experienced a missing loved one to create a new, safe online space for families and friends to connect. If you are interested in supporting this and voicing your thoughts, we would love to hear from you.
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