The Forcer Protocol
What is the Forcer Protocol?
The Forcer Protocol is a national initiative that helps police investigators respond quickly and effectively when a veteran, reservist, or serving military member goes missing.
It works by quickly giving officers access to important information that can help with their search. It is similar to the Herbert Protocol, a scheme to help locate people missing with dementia.
The Forcer Protocol was created by Claire Lilly in memory of her former husband, Lance Corporal Alan Forcer, a veteran who tragically died after going missing in 2020.
How does it help?
When someone goes missing, time is critical. The Forcer Protocol helps our investigators:
- Understand the person’s medical history and mental health needs.
- Identify known triggers or risks.
- Contact family or carers quickly.
- Provide specialist support once the person is found.
How does it work?
When someone is reported missing to us, our call handler will ask the reporting person if the missing person is known to be a veteran. If they are and their details are registered with the Forcer Protocol, control room supervisors will directly access the information held independently through Safe and Found Online.
Veterans, their families, or carers can register with the scheme in advance by filling out a form with key details on the Safe and Found Online website.
The information is stored securely on the platform, and details are only accessed by police if the person is reported missing. This allows officers to act fast, using the information to assess risk and begin the search immediately.
Once found, the person is given specialist support through a referral to Operation Nova. This a charity that helps veterans with emotional and practical support. You can find out more on the Operation Nova website.
How to register
Visit the Forcer Protocol today.
If you're living in another police force area outside of Surrey, let them know you’ve registered with the Forcer Protocol so they can request access to your details when needed.
What to do when someone goes missing
If you discover someone is missing, look for them around the house or home, including any gardens and outbuildings.
If you don’t find them, call 999 immediately.
If you're deaf or hard of hearing, use our textphone service 18000 or text us on 999 if you’ve pre-registered with the emergency SMS service.
Don't worry - you won't be criticised for calling us if you are worried about someone’s safety.
When you call us, say that there is a Forcer Protocol profile available.