Missin?

[suezq]

Does anyone know how long it is before you can report an adult as missing?

[Buenchico]

The police generally won't be interested unless a person has been missing for at least 48 hours.

However, that's only a guideline. If, for example, an estate agent suddenly went missing during the course of his/her work, showing clients around houses, (as in the case of Susie Lamplugh) the police would almost certainly launch an immediate investigation. On the other hand, if a homeless 'drifter' failed to turn up at the hostel where they'd been staying, it might be several weeks (if at all) before any form of investigation was carried out.

For further advice, phone the National Missing Persons Helpline on 0500 700 700.

Chris

[code1]

The wife went missing last June, if anybody see's her, please tell her I have moved house !

[suezq]

Thank you so much for that well considered answer code1
As you can imagine it really helps to know people care at a time like this.

[stonekicker]

it really does depend on the individual - if they are deemed vulnerable or at risk (i.e. someone with mental health problems or learning disabilities, on regular essential medication etc.) then they would be reported earlier than the 48 hours usual approach. it also helps if you report them to an understanding officer rather that one who doesn't give a fig...

[jimbob703]

Also don't forget that people who are over 18 are perfectly entitled to disappear, so police are less inclined to go looking for them as there's a high likelihood that even if they're found their disappearance was entirely of their own making. It's best to go ready with answers as to why you're worried and why it's out of character - are they a suicide risk? have they received threats? etc.etc.