Security classification
Official
Disclosable under FOIA 2000
Yes
Author
CC Patrick Geenty
Force/organisation
Wiltshire Police
Telephone number
01380 734 221
National Policing Business Area
Crime
Date created
11th March 2015
TO: ALL CHIEF CONSTABLES AND COMMISSIONERS
Dear Colleague,
Changes to the definition of “Absent”& other matters
1. Change to the definition of ‘Absent’
In November 2014 following the publication of the report “Real Voices” into Child Sexual Exploitation
in Greater Manchester by Ann Coffey MP, I wrote to all Chief Officers explaining the work being
undertaken by my portfolio because of the links between various types of exploitation and ‘missing’.
I sought to reassure you about the use of the ‘absent’ element within the definition of a missing
person and; also seek your support to ensure that we can meet the scrutiny which will inevitably
follow.
I have been subsequently given examples of both adults and children who have been
inappropriately treated as ‘absent’ such as, a young female with warning markers for ‘CSE’. Such
examples, although relatively rare, confuse the debate but, more importantly, risk the safeguarding
work around the individuals concerned. Therefore, I am again seeking your support to ensure that
‘absent’ is being used appropriately and proportionately across the country and I would again ask
that you review the processes in your force area to ensure that decisions around ‘missing’ and
‘absent’ are based around risk and the rationale for those decisions are suitably documented.
In my earlier letter I informed colleagues that I had instructed that the definition of ‘absent’ for
‘missing’ was to be amended within the forthcoming Authorised Professional Practice (APP) to
ensure there would be no doubt that decisions are to be based around risk. Accordingly, in the new
APP ‘absent’ will be defined as “A person not at a place where they are expected or required to be
and there is no apparent risk”. This small addition has, in fact, always been there but, was
previously within a note rather than in the body of the definition.
The roll-out of the APP has been unavoidably delayed consequently, I believe that the ‘new’
definition should be introduced without delay. Therefore, I should be most grateful if you would
henceforth use the new definition with immediate effect.
2. Cross-Border Investigations
Missing Person investigations which cross force boundaries can become particularly challenging.
Frequently these involve looked after children who have been placed in an area far removed from
their home because of safeguarding concerns in their home area. Consequently, when they go
missing they often return to the very area where they may be most at risk. A critical consideration
can be which force should assume ownership and lead the missing person investigation.
Unfortunately, I have been made aware of cases where disputes between forces has delayed the
appropriate transfer of such cases.
Accordingly, I would ask colleagues to ensure that decisions are made in accordance with the 2010
Guidance which states “The focus should be on achieving a satisfactory outcome for the missing
person and making this decision promptly.” Such decisions need to be predicated on three core
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elements; commonsense, reasonableness but, most importantly effectiveness with the emphasis
placed upon on the welfare of the missing person above all other considerations.
3. Migrant Children
My portfolio is currently working closely with the National Policing Lead for Modern Slavery and UK
Visas & Immigration regarding a small number of unaccompanied migrant children who cannot be
located. The links to trafficking are very well known and the influences on those involved cannot be
underestimated. Indications are that some 50% of unaccompanied migrant children who are
detained and released into the care of local authorities go missing within 48-72 hours often never
to be seen again. The issue is gaining increasing ministerial focus and has recently been the subject
of a multi-force Freedom of Information request.
In July 2014 the Department for Education issued guidance to local authorities regarding their
responsibilities in this area as attached. I would ask colleagues to ensure the following:I.
When suspected migrants, particularly unaccompanied migrant children, are
detained full consideration is given to their status as potential victims of trafficking
and that referral to the National Referral Mechanism is made in appropriate
circumstances.
II.
Biometric data is secured.
III.
Safeguarding liaison is undertaken with local care authorities to provide effective
‘wrap-around’ care, particularly in the critical first few days when the child is most
vulnerable.
IV.
Those responsible for the ‘missing’ portfolio in your force area engage with the local
authorities to ensure they are meeting the requirements detailed in the
aforementioned DfE Guidance.
In relation to “IV” above, please note that this forms part of the Action Plan formulated by my
portfolio Working Group and work is commencing with the DfE for the national perspective.
4. British Transport Police
My portfolio is also working with British Transport Police and discussions have recently been held to
clarify responsibilities and contact arrangements. In view of the current position with the APP it may
not be possible to incorporate this work within its first iteration. Therefore, I thought I would also
take this opportunity to give the following guidance.
The responsibility for the investigation of missing persons lies with relevant Home Office territorial
police forces, however; British Transport Police (BTP) has a valuable role to play in supporting
relevant investigations. It is also possible that the initial report of a missing person may be made to
BTP and in such cases initial information will be taken by BTP to enable an assessment as to the
need for any immediate action. BTP will ensure that the relevant territorial police force is informed
and arrangements are made by that force for them to deal directly with the reporting person(s) and
to manage the investigation..
Clearly, it is not necessary or appropriate for BTP to be routinely advised of all investigations but,
BTP should be notified if:
a. BTP has placed a suicide risk or related information marker on PNC or;
b. There is a risk of suicide (particularly if the missing person resides, frequents or was last
seen within the vicinity of a railway line)
c. There is specific information that they are likely to visit or use the railway system.
Engagement with BTP should form part of the investigation strategy and should be related to
tangible lines of enquiry or search strategy. Where there is risk of suicide or other serious harm is
likely, immediate assistance from BTP can be obtained in relation to intelligence checks, CCTV,
ticketing enquiries and other railway-related matters. These enquiries can be initiated by a
telephone call to the BTP control room on 0800 405 040.
The Association of Chief Police Officers of the United Kingdom
Yours faithfully
Patrick Geenty
Chief Constable, Wiltshire Police
National Policing Lead for the Missing Persons Working Group
Wiltshire Police
London Road
Devizes
Wiltshire
SN10 2DN
Reasons for Non- or Partial Disclosure under Freedom of Information Act 2000
Document Title: Changes to the definition of “Absent”& other matters
Date: 11th March 2014
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The Association of Chief Police Officers of the United Kingdom
The Association of Chief Police Officers of the United Kingdom