Working with families of missing persons
For every missing person case reported, at least 12 others are affected whether it is emotionally, psychologically, physically or financially. This means that a significant number of people endure the trauma associated with the unresolved loss of a loved one. For some, the impact on theirs lives in momentary; for others it is a lifetime.
There is a lack of literature exploring the specific needs of unresolved loss for families and friends of missing persons. Some professionals have attempted to align the experience with the concepts of grief and bereavement; others have linked the experience to a form of post-traumatic stress response. Research indicates that this approach does not take into account the long-term ramifications of never gaining closure when a missing person's whereabouts remains unknown.
Until recently, no model has existed that allows professionals to explore the specific needs of families and friends of missing persons. In response, the NMPCC developed a national counselling framework Supporting those who are left behind.
