Award-winning scheme helps safeguard those living with dementia

A scheme designed to safeguard people living with dementia and give peace of mind to their loved ones has won at Durham Constabulary’s Prevention and Problem-Solving Annual Conference.

PCSO Nicholas Laverick was crowned winner of the Problem-Solving category for his Dementia Wristbands initiative. Working with PCSO Jessica Brown, he developed the innovative safeguarding project to support people living with dementia who may be at risk of going missing.

Working alongside the Herbert Protocol, the scheme provides NFC-enabled wristbands and tags containing emergency contact information. This allows members of the public and first responders to quickly reconnect vulnerable individuals with their loved ones, enhancing safety while helping people retain their independence and dignity.

The scheme was adopted in December last year before being fully launched in May 2026. Since launching the initiative fully in May, we have:

• Received 200 Herbert Protocol referrals
• Issued 49 wristbands
• Issued 40 hang tags
• Received an average of almost nine Herbert Protocol referrals per week
• Conducted at least one visit per day

PCSO Laverick said: "The feedback we have received since launching the scheme in December has been overwhelmingly positive.

"The joint work of the Herbert Protocol and the Dementia Safeguarding Awareness Scheme is providing support and peace of mind to families and carers across County Durham.

"Every minute counts when a person living with dementia goes missing.

"By ensuring crucial information is available when a vulnerable person goes missing, and by making emergency contact information easily accessible, the schemes help us and our partner agencies locate vulnerable missing people quickly and return them home safely.

"We hope these campaigns reach those who have loved ones living with dementia."

Tap your phone to get me home. It's something everyone needs to be aware of.

To refer a loved one to the Herbert Protocol, or to request a wristband or tag if they are already on the protocol, please contact: [email protected]

The event also showcased nine inspiring projects tackling a wide range of challenges, from off-road bikes and rural crime to suicide prevention among veterans and child exploitation. Each presentation highlighted the dedication, creativity and determination of colleagues working to make a real difference in our communities.