MEMBER GOING MISSING

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Policy aimed at; Employers and Employees

 

 

Issued Feb 2006

 

Updated August 2018

 

 

Introduction

 

This document should be read within the context of the wider policies and procedures of Bath Junior Gateway Club  In particular, reference should be made to policies and procedures relating to duty of care, service users plans and service user risk assessments.

 

Principles of good practice

 

In situations where members live independently or with their families or other carers you would not normally need to know where members are for the majority of the time except for when support is actually provided. In a club situation where a member is dependent on volunteers to be safe for most of the time it is essential that volunteers are aware of where the member is. A needs assessment conducted by a social services care manager and/or Bath Junior Gateway Club should identify known safety issues and indicate those situations where a person may be at risk. The support plan should address any specific risks associated with a member being on their own whilst within a club setting or outside of the usual club setting.

 

Where appropriate an individual risk assessment must be completed, with the input and permission of the parents/carers

 

Precautions

 

It is the responsibility of staff and volunteers supporting members:

 

1. to be aware of any individual members whom maybe at risk of going missing

2. to be aware of and understand your role in implementing any risk assessments in place for these members

3. to ensure appropriate volunteer cover is available at all times and that those needing 1:1 are catered for.

4. to be aware, at all times, of the whereabouts of each member.

 

Definition of a missing member

 

What is meant by “a member going missing" Concern should be expressed when a member:

 

1. As soon as a member is unaccountable within a group activity

 

 

 

Procedure to be followed

 

Concern should then lead to an initial investigation including:

 

1. checking the premises and grounds to ensure that the particular member has not wandered off, hidden or become trapped

2. asking other service members, in a way that does not generate anxiety, if they have any knowledge of the person's plans or whereabouts.

 

When concern has become serious staff and volunteers must act immediately.

 

If the circumstances suggest that the member has gone missing, the local police and the parents/carers must be notified. The precise timing of this will be a matter of discretion, with regard to the person's age, competency and level of vulnerability.

 

It will help to have:

 

1. a clear description of the person. A recent photograph would be useful, as this may be required by the police;

2. as much detail as possible about where the person intended to go or might be located, and when they left the service

3. some indication of the person's relevant competencies - e.g. physical mobility, communication skills

4. information about any particular behaviour patterns that may be relevant to their absence or their reaction to feeling lost and needing to seek and/or receive help.

 

When it has been established with reasonable certainty that a member is a “missing person", the following people must be informed:

 

1. the police (they will advise on procedures)

2. in the case of a child (under the age of 18), the parents or the person with parental responsibility

3. Coordinator or Chairperson

 

Once the member has been located or has returned, ensure that all parties who were advised of the situation are contacted again and informed of the outcome.

 

Throughout the process it is important to maintain personal calm and to cause as little anxiety as possible amongst other members.

 

A full report of the incident, and action taken, must be made without delay

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