Longer-term ideas

Contrary to a criminal investigation, police do not have quick or straightforward access to a person’s digital activity (probably for the best). However, in a missing persons case, this can be crucial.

Apps on smartphones often record location information, so the closest and most trusted person to the missing loved one can try to access Google or Apple accounts if possible. Sometimes, using password recovery methods can work if you know enough information to manage this.

Stories about missing persons are of human interest and can reach millions, or you might prefer to target regional newsletters or community forums.

You can write the story yourself for blog sites like Mamamia (e.g., Where are you, Dan?), or on your own social channels (e.g., Facebook or a LinkedIn article), or you can approach magazines that will write the story on your behalf.

If you haven’t yet, consider bumper stickers, billboards, videos, t-shirts, and media campaigns. You never know who the message might reach. Brainstorm with some friends. See Create & Share

Depending on the case type and how long your loved one has been missing, police may be open to offering a reward for information. You can request this formally, but rewards are not guaranteed. They are most often offered in cases involving suspicious circumstances, potential foul play, or long-term disappearances.

Alternatively, if you decide to announce a self-funded reward (i.e., your personal funds or via fundraising), the figure must be realistic and the conditions clear. If this is something you want to do, make sure you discuss it with the police officer(s) assigned to your case first. Once the figure and conditions have been decided, update your poster, etc., accordingly, and send out a media release to inform the public of the reward.

Events are a great way to reignite public support and attract media attention. Anything that brings the community together can make for a great event. Volunteers may also want to help raise money to assist in the search. Most events have a fundraising component to them, and if not for the costs associated with the search, funds raised can go to a charity that the missing person has an alignment with (it may further encourage public participation and media attention).

Ask for assistance from organisations like Lions and Rotary, and participation from celebrities and/or local figures. Help on writing letters for appeals can be found at: Volunteers

Ideas for events and fundraising:

• Crowdfunding (e.g., Benefit concerts, sausage sizzles, t-shirts, wristbands)
• Participating in a fun run (e.g., Run Melbourne, City2Surf)
• PR event to mark a milestone in the search

You may need to consider having a specialist digitally alter the supplied image of your missing loved one.

A really good graphic designer might be able to make slight amendments (e.g., thinner face, longer hair), but if you think their current appearance would be drastically different, ask us to connect you to Tim Widden, a forensic artist from the British National Crime Agency’s Missing Persons Unit, who has offered his services pro bono to The Missed Foundation.

You will be required to supply photographs of your missing loved one, and possibly other family members, as well as information (e.g., health factors) so that the most accurate age-progressed image can be created for you.