Helping with the search
Many families and friends of missing people find they gain a sense of control, direction and purpose by ‘keeping busy’ and helping with the search. The following suggestions are useful if families and friends wish to be more actively involved in the search process.
It is strongly recommended to check with police or the search agency before undertaking any of the suggested activities and make sure they are informed of any progress.
Raising awareness about a missing person
- Many avenues may be used to raise awareness of a missing person. Families and friends may wish to have photographs of the missing person printed for distribution to the media, for inclusion on posters and for other publicity purposes (refer to Working with the Media).
Creating posters
- Many families and friends of missing persons disseminate their own posters or search information to ensure that the community is aware that someone is missing.
- Posters may be designed to be both eye-catching and convey information about the missing person. Information that can be displayed may include a photograph of the missing person, details of the last sighting of the person and a contact number for the public to provide information. The most appropriate contact number to display should be the local police or search agency, not a private telephone or mobile phone number.
- Local community members may help distribute posters in public areas such as shopping centres, bus stops, railway stations, local sporting and entertainment venues, libraries, local councils, clubs and community centres.
- A list should be kept of where posters have been distributed and displayed.
Sharing information about an investigation
- It may be useful to provide a description of the missing person to local transport services such as taxi and bus services. Any information relating to the missing person should be provided to the case manager or investigating officer.
- The police or search agency should be consulted about making a public appeal via the media (refer to Working with the Media).
Keeping personal records about the investigation
- When dealing with police, the name, rank, station, phone and fax numbers of the officer taking the missing person’s report should be written down. This should include where there are any changes to the case officer during the investigation.
- Details of all the organisations contacted for help should be kept, including support services or professional practitioners.
- Any information presented or specific details of any enquiries conducted should be recorded.