Police launch initiative to protect missing veterans in Surrey
The Forcer Protocol aims to swiftly locate vulnerable military personnel
Surrey Police has introduced a initiative designed to assist officers in locating vulnerable military personnel and veterans who have gone missing in the county.
The announcement was made at the Surrey Armed Forces Covenant Conference held at the Army Training Centre in Pirbright.
Superintendent Matt Barcraft-Barnes and Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Ellie Vesey-Thompson joined campaigner Claire Lilly to provide insights into the scheme.
The Forcer Protocol is inspired by the story of Lance Corporal Alan Forcer, who took his life in 2020 after going missing.
Alan, who served in Northern Ireland and Kosovo, battled with complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
His former wife, Claire, and their son, Josh, have worked to ensure such situations are met with timely intervention.
The protocol invites forces personnel, veterans, and their families and friends to register with Safe and Found.
This platform securely stores information that can aid in locating individuals who disappear.
Claire said: “Alan’s journey with the military began in Pirbright in 1996. As the founder of the Forcer Protocol, seeing its implementation within Surrey Police holds profound personal meaning for us as a family, and for the wider armed forces community.
"To honour the legacy of our Lance Corporal Alan Forcer, on behalf of our family and the wider community, means more than words can ever truly express. Your support ensures that his name, his values and his service continue to make a lasting difference."
The Safe and Found platform ensures confidentiality, with information only shared when necessary.
Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Grahame, the Force’s chief officer lead for missing persons, said: “I am so proud we have launched the Forcer Protocol in Surrey Police; the hard work of many now to establish the protocol will benefit many more people in our county in the future.
“The Forcer Protocol will aid us to quickly find those who are vulnerable and need of our help and support.
“Well done to all who have made this happen.”