National Missing Persons Framework for Scotland

Conclusion - supporting some of our most vulnerable people

Through this Framework, the Scottish Government is providing for a focus for all agencies with an interest in missing people to work together.

As noted above, it is the first of its kind in Scotland and is intended to provide a basis for all agencies to consider their role in supporting some of the most vulnerable people within our communities.

The Framework clarifies responsibilities and sets out a clear set of objectives and supporting commitments. It also includes and Implementation Plan ( Annex E) and makes a commitment to review progress. Through this, it will improve the way we deal with the issue in Scotland and bring more consistency to bear on how we protect and support missing people and their families.

Ultimately, however, it will be for all of us to look out for vulnerable people in our communities. Whether they are our neighbours, our friends or people that we know of otherwise, we all have a duty to spot the signs and seek help for those who need it. This Government believes that if we do this, and our agencies continue to work together, we will be able to provide people at risk of going missing and their families with the help, protection and support that they deserve.