For parents and carers
Information for families living in Scotland
In Scotland parents and carers are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of their children.
More information about the law in Scotland can be found in the leaflet "Information for families living in Scotland":
- Info for families living in Scotland (PDF, 166 KB)(opens new window)
- Information for families attending child protection planning meetings (PDF, 45 KB)(opens new window)
- Information for Families involved in a Child Protection Investigation (PDF, 60 KB)(opens new window)
Autistic Missing Person Protocol
The Autistic Missing Person Protocol has been developed by Police Scotland in consultation with Scottish Autism and is being piloted throughout Lothian and Scottish Borders.
It is a simple risk reduction tool to help individuals, families, schools and other organisations assist Police in the event an autistic adult or child goes missing.
It consists of a form which contains vital information about sensory needs, communication abilities, responses and reactions, favourites places and a photograph with consent to share on social media (if needed).
The form can be passed to Police at the point the vulnerable child or adult is reported missing and avoids unnecessary delays in gathering information at a time of crisis. As well as keeping a copy of the form within the place of residence, consideration should also be given to have a copy within the school, work or any other service provider where the person may attend.