A scheme to find missing veterans and serving military personnel faster has launched in County Durham.
Durham Constabulary launched the Forcer Protocol at an East Durham Veterans event in Murton today (Thursday, October 1) attended by officers, veterans and campaigners.
The Forcer Protocol lets veterans, reservists and serving personnel record key details in advance, including mental health conditions, triggers and places they may go if they go missing.
If someone goes missing, police can immediately access the details to guide searches and provide the right support.
Assistant Chief Constable Jon McAdam said he was proud to see the protocol adopted in Durham.
He said: "When the guns go silent, that's when the battle begins."
ACC McAdam described the Forcer Protocol as "a vital initiative that reinforces our unwavering commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people who go missing".
The event was also attended by Claire Lilly, who founded the protocol following the death of her ex-husband, Lance Corporal Alan James Forcer.
Hartlepool veteran’s death sparks national push to save lives. (Image: SASS MEDIA LTD)
Alan, a former soldier from Hartlepool who served in Kosovo and Northern Ireland, died by suicide in May 2020 after being reported missing.
He was found three days later in woodland in Stockton, with his dog Zeus by his side.
Claire said Alan’s death showed why officers need crucial information as soon as a veteran is reported missing.
Updated family handout photo issued by Ison Harrison solicitors of Kosovo veteran Alan Forcer. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)
She said: "When Alan went missing, I knew straight away that we had to find him.
"The Forcer Protocol ensures that vital details are shared via the 'Safe & Found' form.
"This means that if a veteran or serving personnel is reported missing, police officers can use that information to escalate and speed up the search and help people access the right support.
"This is what Alan needed."
Alan struggled with complex PTSD, addiction and the challenges of civilian life after service.
Claire said stability and routines such as regular exercise helped Alan, but Covid lockdowns seriously affected his mental health.
The campaign lets Claire and her son Josh honour Alan’s memory while helping others.
Josh was 18 when his father died and now volunteers with Phoenix Heroes, supporting veterans through fishing, hiking and other outdoor activities.
He said: "I can see the impact on my own mental health when I'm fishing or hiking.
"It's the chance to do something constructive alongside other veterans who have shared the same experience."
The protocol is free through Safe and Found Online and operates independently of police forces.
Campaigners say it has helped save hundreds of lives since Greater Manchester Police became the first force to adopt it in 2023.
Claire said the campaign’s success had helped her family find purpose after tragedy.
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She added: "It's been really cathartic as a family."
People can register themselves or a loved one for the Forcer Protocol free at www.safeandfoundonline.co.uk.
By December 2025, the Forcer Protocol had been adopted by 17 police forces, while campaigners were calling for every force in the country to implement it.